Christopher Michael Hartwell, age 50, passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2026, following a courageous battle with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia that progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Born January 10, 1976, in Littleton, Massachusetts, Christopher was the son of Peter Hartwell and the late Diane Marie (Kosckinski) Hartwell.

Christopher attended Littleton schools and Nashoba Valley Technical School. From a young age, he enjoyed being active and adventurous. He played Pop Warner football and participated in high school wrestling. He had a lifelong love of country music and was especially proud of his talent for singing, winning awards for karaoke. As a child, he loved riding dirt bikes, racing his big wheel down hills, and spending time with family.

Chris found happiness in the simple moments that brought people together. He loved family food gatherings and could often be found cooking, experimenting with seasonings, and creating his own combinations of foods. He enjoyed playing cards and games, especially poker, rummy, and Uno. He had a playful and creative spirit and enjoyed making memories with the people he loved.

Chris was a deeply caring person, though he often kept his emotions private. He did not always show the worries he carried, because he was more concerned about how others were feeling. He often tried to protect the people around him from being upset, even when he was struggling himself. He grieved and loved more deeply than many people ever knew. Behind his quiet and independent nature was someone who wanted, above all else, happiness, acceptance, love, and time with his family.

Chris chose to forge his own path in life. He was fiercely independent and sometimes preferred to make his own decisions without involving others. He could be stubborn and was not always one to follow directions, but he understood the balance between getting away with things and accepting the consequences of his choices. He faced his struggles honestly, battled his own demons, and did not make excuses. Through it all, he continued to seek the love and acceptance that meant so much to him.

Chris built a full and meaningful family life with his partner of 11 years, Pamela Jordan. He embraced Pam's family and relatives as his own and enjoyed being involved in their lives. Family trips, gatherings, shared meals, games, and everyday moments together were important to him. He cherished his children, stepchildren, and grandchildren and treasured the time he was able to spend with them.

In addition to his father, Peter, Christopher is survived by his partner of 11 years, Pamela Jordan; stepmothers Susan G. Melito-Cunneen and Charlotte Oneill; children Stephanie Randall and Jordan Tucker; twin brother Peter J. Hartwell; brother Nathan Hartwell and wife Lori. He was the Papa of Analecia, Izaiah, Adrian, Caleb, and Gabriel. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Stacy A. Hartwell.

During his illness, Chris made the selfless decision to participate in cancer treatment research and clinical studies through Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He wanted to help advance the understanding and treatment of cancer so that, in the future, other families and loved ones might not have to experience what he and his family endured. His willingness to contribute to research is a lasting reflection of his concern for others and his hope that something good could come from his own difficult journey.

Chris will be remembered for his independent spirit, his love of family, his sense of adventure, his music and singing, his creativity in the kitchen, and, most of all, for the love he carried quietly for the people around him.

Chris’s Funeral Service will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Monday, August 24th from 11 am – 1 pm followed by a brief service at 1 pm. Burial will follow at Westlawn Cemetery, Littleton. A Celebration of Life will follow. 

Flowers are appreciated, however, in lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute Research Fund. Please check “In Memory Of” and enter Chris’s name.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bobby Bancroft, a longtime and deeply respected friend of the family, for officiating Christopher's service. The family takes great comfort in Bobby's kindness, friendship, and willingness to be there for them during this difficult time.

The family invites anyone who knew Christopher to share a favorite memory, story, photograph, or poem on his tribute page. These memories will be cherished and will help keep Chris's spirit and the moments shared with him alive for those who loved him.