Werner X. Wolpert of Hartford passed away peacefully in the presence of his dear friends, Dr. Richard Lewis, Tanja, Doreen, Anja, Sue and his loving wife Heidi at Aurora Medical Center in Hartford on Friday, Aug. 22, 2008. He was 80 years old.

Werner was born on June 20, 1928 in Wiesbaden, Germany. He was the son of August and Rosalie (Kaltenecker) Wolpert.

Werner married Heidi Schug on June 26, 1975, in Rubicon.

Werner recently retir-ed as executive director of the Hartford Area Development Corporation because of ongoing health issues.

He was known for his dedication to the Hartford community. The hardest thing he ever had to do was retire.

He served with the HADC since the mid-1980s. He loved this community and he loved his job.

Werner came to Hartford in 1971 and was the owner of a fuel oil and mason concrete business. He sold it in 1990. This is when he became very involved with the HADC. Every day brought a new challenge and opportunity for Werner.

Werner is survived by his wife Heidi; other nieces and nephews relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Margot and Elfie.

To honor Werner’s wishes no formal funeral services will be held.

He did want this poem published in his obituary:

"Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry: I am not there. I did not die."

Werner requested that any memorials be given to the Washington County Humane Society.

The Shimon Funeral Home is assisting the family, 673-9500; www.shimonfuneralhome.com.