Michael Hartstein

Bangor, ME – Michael Hartstein, 72 died Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, from multiple health complications stemming from a widespread blood infection.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Deborah (Jones) Hartstein; his sons Ryan and Christopher Hartstein, his granddaughter Moira, his mother Joan Hartstein, his siblings Becky Melton, Barb Felten, John Hartstein, and Beth Lockwood, and those who knew him closely.
Michael was born and raised in Mishawaka, IN, and is the eldest son of Theodore and Joan (Bentley) Hartstein. After finishing high school, Mike attended Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MI, where he met his wife, Deborah. He graduated in 1975 with a deep interest in theology, then joined the US Army soon after and served his country for four years. While in the army, he was inspired to become a medical doctor. This prompted him to continue his education and obtain his Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine medical license from the University of New England.
From there, Michael and his family moved across the U.S. to Reno, NV, where he completed his residency. He found his first opportunity to practice medicine in Big Bear Lake, CA, where he and his family would continue to call home for many years. Michael went on to have a large impact on the community by serving as a family physician to many people, and was well known for putting others before himself. He also spent a number of years as an emergency room physician at several different hospitals.
He was extremely hardworking and did not shy away from a challenge. Beyond medicine he was skilled in carpentry, and enjoyed gardening and landscaping. He enjoyed spending time with his family and fellowship with his church. He had a passion for engaging in conversation on theology, politics, medicine, amongst other subjects. Mike was direct and sincere. Those who were fortunate to know Michael closely, experienced his warm sense of humor which could fill an entire room.
Michael and his wife eventually moved back to Maine for the last several years of his life. He sought to pursue his everlasting call for theological studies at the New England Bible College seminary school. They made a new home in Corinth, ME, where he and Deborah thoroughly enjoyed a quiet, country lifestyle. Michael unfortunately suffered from a series of accidents that reduced his health including a ladder fall and car accident. He endured with disabilities until sickness overtook him.
His funeral will be held on June 29, 2024 at 2:00 PM (EST) at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 1195 Stetson Rd, Exeter, ME 04435. There will be a reception to follow.