Hartman, Hilmer J. Age 94, of New Hope, MN, formerly of Dayton, MN, returned to his Heavenly Father on May 15th in Coon Rapids, MN, due to complications from Covid-19. Hilmer was born in Dayton, MN, in 1926 and graduated from Anoka High School as valedictorian in 1944. Outside of 2 years of service in the U.S. Army at Fort Campbell, KY, during the Korean War, he was a proud farmer of the family land, Hartman Century Farm in Dayton. He died on the Feast Day of St. Isidore, patron saint of Farmers. Preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ida (Lahn) Hartman; brothers Harlen and Harold Hartman; sister and brother-in-law, Eulalie and Les Beach; sister Elaine Hartmann, and grand-niece Sarah Beach. Survived by niece and nephews, Carole Beach, godson George Beach, Richard (Ann) Beach, Glenn (Ruth) Beach, and Bernard (Arlene) Beach; and by 13 grand- and 17 great-grand nieces and nephews; special friend Beth Praught, and many other relatives, neighbors and friends. Hilmer served on the Dayton City Council, including as Mayor. He was a volunteer firefighter with the Dayton Fire Dept. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Lions' Club, and Farm Bureau. Hilmer was a man of deep faith and was a life-long member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Dayton. He attended daily Mass as often as he could. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, there will be a private family Mass and burial in the St. John the Baptist parish cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date to be announced. Hilmer's family would like to thank everyone in the I.C.U. at Mercy Hospital for their loving care and presence. And Father Yanta for his assistance in setting up the Sacrament of the Sick during this extraordinary time. And Beth, for all that she has done. And all who have cared for Hilmer since his 1996 stroke. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you send memorials to the charity of your choice.