Rodney Alan Hartwig was born on April 6, 1962 to Donald Hartwig and Myrna (Peters) Baade in Pensacola, FL., and passed away at Bryan Hospital in Lincoln, NE on April 22, 2020 due to complications from lung cancer. Rod graduated from Crete High School in 1980, and was a member of the Crete Fire Department from August of 1992 until October of 2006. In 1981, Rodney answered an ad in the newspaper where he found his true passion for singing and playing guitar. Rod continued playing both privately and professionally for the remaining 39 years of his life. Rod is preceded in death by his father Donald Hartwig. Rodney will be forever remembered by his sons Dustin (Lorrica), and Nicholas (Erika) Hartwig; his grandson Asher Hartwig; his mother Myrna and step-father Donald Baade; his sister Tammy (Robert) Narducci; his niece and nephews Lauren, Ryan, and Brandon. Rod will also be remembered by his extended family, dear friends, and fellow musicians. Viewing for the public will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2020 from 1 - 8 PM at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete. Private graveside services will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Crete. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is in charge of arrangements.