Eldean H. "Short" Hartman was born September 26, 1939 at Nora, South Dakota to Edwin "Bud" and Gladys (Ellingsen) Hartman. He attended rural schools at West Union and Williams. Short received his GED from the military and his Associates degree from Sioux Empire Community College in Hawarden, Iowa.

He served in the US Army from 1957 to 1960, serving in Korea for 13 months. Eldean was united in marriage to Janet McCormick on August 17, 1963 in Fairview, SD. To this union two children were born, Shelley and Wade. He worked construction with his dad until he started trucking. Short was a cross- country semi driver for 33 years. He drove for three companies throughout that time.

Short was a member of the Alcester VFW Post 6149 and was active in the color guard. He enjoyed spending time with his family; whether it was annual snowmobiling trips in the Black Hills or beating them playing games.

Grateful for sharing in his life is his wife of 61 years, Janet; daughter, Shelley (Jeff) Brown; son, Wade (Stacey) Hartman; grandpa and "Papa" to his four grandchildren, Julia (Andrew) Oleen, Maggie (fiancé, Austin Cooney) Brown, Alex Hartman, and Gabe Hartman; his great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Oleen; and one sister, Geri Monson. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Dick Hartman and Don Hartman.

Funeral services will be at 10AM on Saturday, February 15th, 2025 at Nathanael Lutheran Church in Alcester, SD. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 PM Friday at the church, with a 7PM prayer service.