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Tracy Abbott Hardwick, Colonel, USAF, (retired)

2020-05-04

Tracy Abbott Hardwick, Colonel, USAF, (retired), age 62 of Yulee, Florida passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2020 at Community Hospice at Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville after a year-long battle with cancer.

Tracy was born in Lineville, Alabama to Geraldine Nazworth Hardwick and the late Charles Abbott Hardwick. He grew up in Dade City, Florida and moved to Fernandina Beach, Florida, graduating from Fernandina Beach High School, Class of 1975. Colonel Hardwick earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from Florida State University in 1980. He continued his education earning a Master of Science degree in Criminology from Central Missouri State University and a Master of Science degree in Strategic Studies from the Air War College. Colonel Hardwick commissioned into the United States Air Force through the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Florida State University and entered active duty in 1980.

In his 30 years of service, Colonel Hardwick was a respected Commander, warrior and exemplary Air Force Officer. He always led by example and was a master in building esprit des corps. He commanded a Services Squadron and two Aerial Port Squadrons at McChord Air Force Base (AFB), Washington and Travis AFB, California. He was then handpicked to command the 60th Mission Support Group at Travis AFB, California. He always said, �Commanding Airmen was an honor and a privilege.�

Colonel Hardwick was also a warrior who served during the height of the Cold War, overseas and in three combat operations. He was a Minuteman II Missile Combat Crew Commander and Flight Commander in the 508th Strategic Missile Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Missouri. He also served overseas at Rhein Main Air Base, Germany in the 4th Mobile Aerial Port Squadron and deployed for Combat Operations in OPERATION URGENT FURY, Grenada; and OPERATION DESERT SHIELD and OPERATION DESERT STORM in Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

A talented planner, speaker, and writer, he was chosen to serve on the staffs of the Air Mobility Command and Pacific Air Forces Command. He received numerous awards and decorations including the Legion of Merit with one oak leaf cluster, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and the Air Force Achievement Medal. Colonel Hardwick retired as the Logistics Readiness Division Chief for Headquarters Pacific Air Forces, Hickam AFB, Hawaii, and relocated back to Yulee, Florida to be near family.

After taking off the uniform, he continued to excel and to serve. Tracy started with JAS air cargo on August 28, 2017 and quickly rose from Business Development Manager to Director, National Accounts for the Government and Defense sector. Tracy ranked first or second nationally in Sales every year. He was always clear that his mission at JAS was to provide the best possible support to the US Warfighter.

Tracy was an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed surfing, boating, fishing and working out.

Tracy�s father, Charles A. Hardwick, preceded him in death. He leaves behind his wife, Gloria Hardwick of Yulee, Florida; his children, Hunter Hardwick of Yulee, Florida, Megan Hardwick of Tucson, Arizona, Janisa Harmon and her husband Joshua of Yulee, Florida; his mother Geri Hardwick of Fernandina Beach, Florida; his sister, LaDonna Wagner of Lakeland, Florida and granddaughter, Harper Gaines. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Services to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.

Memories

KAREN AND JIM GERLACHER May 4, 2020
I shall always remember the joy and happiness Colonel Hardwick spread daily. What a pleasure it was to work for such a hero. Jim and I send our deepest condolences to Gloria and family.

YVONNE & RUSS FRAZIER May 4, 2020
Gloria, just know you and your family are in our prayers! We have so many wonderful and pleasant thoughts of you and Preacher!! With love and hugs, Yvonne and Russ Frazier

DAVID AND TONI SCHLOSSER May 4, 2020
You have our deepest sympathy. He was the finest Officer I ever worked for. I will miss him greatly.

TONY �MONTY� MONTES May 4, 2020
RIP Colonel. You were the best! A true Officer and a gentleman that knew how to take care of your people. I�ll always cherish your many lessons about leadership and most importantly life and family. My condolences to Ms Gloria and all of your family and many, many friends.

HEATHER COOK, COLONEL, USAF May 4, 2020
Rest with Him, Colonel H. You were an awesome commander, boss, mentor and friend. Your lessons have lasted many years and have been passed on to younger generations. You taught us all how to be better Port Dawgs. Heaven is a brighter and more joyous place now.

JOHN RAUSCH, COL, USAF May 4, 2020
Tracy Hardwick, you shall not be forgotten. Truly one of a kind and one of the best officers I�ve ever served with. RIP Tracy.

MARIA AND ALLEN VINUP May 5, 2020
With our deepest sympathy. May he rest in Peace and the perpetual light shine upon him. We truly enjoyed serving with him and will always be remembered.

DEBI AND MIKE GARVES May 5, 2020
With sincere sympathy, Col Hardwick, Tracy was a wonderful man. Funny, caring and lit up the room. Such fond fond memories of him. So saddened of his passing and with sincere sympathy to Gloria and the family. Rest in Peace, Tracy!

WAYNE P HUDSON, COL, USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
A great Missileer and true officer RIP

CARL BEAL May 5, 2020
My prayers and condolences goes out to ther family. Col. Hardwick was my Operations Officer when we were stationed together in Frankfurt Germany. One of the best men to ever put on a uniform. Rest in Heaven Col.

SCOTT MURRAY May 5, 2020
I was so sad to hear this today, Tracy and I first met in Panama during the transition of U.S. Southern Command to Miami, FL. He graciously hosted my promotion party to the naval rank of Commander at his residence in Miami Beach� He was always their to help anyone and had the greatest sense of humor� My thoughts and prayers go out to his family� Rest in Peace shipmate�

FELIX OLIVERA AND CAROLYN DEL CIELO-OLIVERA May 5, 2020
Tracy was our neighbor. He was one of the first people we met when we moved here about a year and a half ago. He was a wonderful man and he will truly be missed. Rest in peace.

PATRICIA GREENWOOD MOTHER OF MATTHEW GREENWOOD May 5, 2020
My prayers are with the family. My son thought the world of him.

MIKE AND JAN WILSON May 5, 2020
Tracy was family to many who knew him. He was polite, respectful and fun to be with. He loved a good time and wanted to make sure everyone around him was enjoying life as much as he did. Gloria, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

WALTER FULDA � COL, USAF (RET.) May 5, 2020
Preacher was a true Patriot Airman. He possessed a larger than life personality, heart, and passion for his country, our Air Force, and our Airmen. He will be missed tremendously! God Speed my friend.

ANDY BELKO May 5, 2020
Tracy was a great officer, mentor and friend�one of the finest men I ever met. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He had an extraordinarily positive impact on the lives of so many people he met during his exemplary life. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Gloria and the entire Hardwick family.

RODNEY CALLOWAY, FORMER SSGT, USAF May 5, 2020
It was an honor to serve with you. You were very selfless, personable, and inspirational. You were loved by officers and enlisted, alike. You�ve left a lasting legacy through those who were graced with your leadership.

RANDY LITTLE, CMSGT, USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
Sir it was my honor to serve with you. Awesome person and leader. Prayers sent for you and family. PACAF was a better command because of you.

TANYA MCCORMICK May 5, 2020
I am shocked to hear this today. Col Hardwick was a regular and supportive customer of the Travis AFB Fitness Center and we always looked forward to seeing his bright eyes and welcoming smile when he came to workout. First hand we got to see Gloria and Tracy start their courtship. You two were adorable working out in the gym together. Every couple years when they change Mission Support Group commanders, he is the first one we think of and we always hope to have another one like him. He was so unique, memorable and fun and we�ve missed him ever since he left. Godspeed and prayers go out to Gloria and family.

GREG COLEMAN May 5, 2020
It was a pleasure to work for you and with you. You made it an absolute pleasure to come to work and get the job done. Rest in peace, Preacher. Ms. Gloria you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

CHUCK AND CHERYL HEIMERMAN May 5, 2020
Peace to Tracy�s family in this very sorrowful time.

JOHN AND RUTH DARLINGTON May 5, 2020
Our hearts are broken for the family of this wonderful man. Rest in peace, Tracy.

MSGT (RET) TODD GOEB May 5, 2020
Absolutely the best! Col Hardwick your enthusiastic leadership and professional attitude had a infinite impact on my life and countless others. You will be missed by all who knew you. Thoughts and prayers for all the family.

MICHAEL A. HOLGATE, CMSGT (RET), USAF May 5, 2020
Very sad news. Tracy was the best damn Colonel I ever had the honor to serve with! Great boss, great friend, fellow motorcycle enthusiast, and he always led from in front! I often told him he missed his true calling, should have been a comedian, because he had such a God-given talent to make people laugh! RIP Brother. Prayers to you and the family Ms. Gloria.

CHRIS BENDALL, COL, USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
I was fortunate enough to have known Tracy my entire military career. I could always count on learning why �That dawg don�t hunt� when I would pitch an idea to him. I�ll forever remember him as a compassionate leader with a great sense of humor. You will be missed, Preacher. Thanks for your leadership, your dedication to our country, and especially for your friendship.

RANDY AND ANGI RESCH May 5, 2020
Very sad news indeed. Col Hardwick had a leadership talent all his own, was a treasured mentor of mine, but most of all was a kind, intelligent and respected man. Angi and I will miss him greatly.

DALE. HILL TSGT RETIRED US AIR FORCE May 5, 2020
To the best commander that I ever worked with. I will always remember the times you went out of your way to ensure your troops we your first priority . God bless your family you will be truly missed by everyone you come in contact with .

JACKIE OWENS May 5, 2020
What a great person to have worked for and worked with. My condolences to his family. To be absent for this earth is to be present with the lord. He will be missed.

TRAVIS E. LEWIS, COL, USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
�Hard Rock� was one of the best officers I served with in my career. We�ve lost someone very special, and I�ve lost someone very special to me. When your number two cares about the people and the mission as much as you do your job is a joy. Inspiring, motivating, dedicated, and humourous is just a few of Tracey�s attibutes, Tracey was born to lead; some have to be trained to lead, but leading was who Tracey was. Tracey was one of those people that you came to respect and want around you all the time. When I left 4thMAPS I was pained because I was leaving Tracey and the team we had built. Thank you Hard Rock for being a great leader, Airman, and American. I miss you my friend. SALUTE!

JOHN F. CORRIGAN, LT COL, USAF (RET.) May 5, 2020
Tracy epitomized �service before self and excellence in all he did.� I met Tracy in April 1984, he was a selfless officer, warrior, and I truly loved him as a brother! Simply put, Tracy was a winner and made all of us better. May the Lord bless him and the Angels caress him. God bless you Gloria and all of the family.

PAULA THOMPSON TRAVIS AFB CA May 5, 2020
My Heart is broken to hear of the passing of one the most Amazingly Awesome, Wonderful and Loving Col Tracy A. Hardwick. My deepest sympathy to his family. Itvwas such an Honor to have met and worked for this Amazing Man. He has brought joy to so many he crossed and brought together over the years. May He rest so peacefully. Col Hardwick will be truly missed by many.

MARK KLOHR May 5, 2020
There are no words, just an empty feeling. Glad I had the opportunity to know him. May his family remain strong and carry forward his awesome memory and legacy.

CHRIS CHAMBERS MSGT (RET) May 5, 2020
Col Hardwick taught us all how to lead. Through personal relationships and �Hardwicks House of Pain! I am thankful for the time I served under his Command at PACAF.

DAVID D NELSON May 5, 2020
Tracy was a business colleague who will be dearly missed. His larger than life personality brought energy and smiles in all of our business dealings. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing and I will remember Tracy fondly. I wish peace to Tracy�s wife and family, who he often mentioned with such love and affection. Tracy was a very special person.

RICHARD SESLAR, MSGT, RETIRED May 5, 2020
Colonel Harkwick was an amazing leader that had the personality that allowed him to connect with all of his people. He set the mood that exemplified truth and honesty. His approach sound and professional. He met challenges head on and made difficult decisions that affected thousands of people. It was an honor to serve under his leadership. May he rest in peace and may our souls rejoice we had an opportunity to meet, laugh and serve with this awesome man.

JIM CALHOUN , COL USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
Tracy was the �Coolest� Colonel in the AF. He had a unique talent of making everyone feel at ease. He was a great riding partner. Tracy will will be truly missed.

VINCE WINEGARDNER May 5, 2020
The tributes and testimonials tell how special Tracy was to all of those who were blessed to know him. He will always be in my thoughts.

BRENT KLUKSDAHL May 5, 2020
My heart goes out Gloria, Geri, LaDonna and all of Tracy�s family and friends. I will remember him for all of our recent conversations and laughs since we�d reconnected later in our lives and also for all of those fun times in our teenage years. Rest in peace cousin. You will be missed. Love you.

WAYNE SANFORD May 5, 2020
Even though I never worked directly for him, he had a reputation of being a fair officer throughout his career. All of those airman that I know who knew him and /or worked for him, always spoke highly of the Colonel. Please accept condolences from the Sanford Family.

GENE GALLANT, USAF MAJ (RET) May 5, 2020
I have read all of the condolences above about this tremendous leader, mentor and friend whom we lost too early. I first met Tracey when we were both attending Transportation Officers� School at Shepherd AFB, TX in 1981. Even then I could tell he was going to be an impressive leader and �comedian� to all who met him. We crossed paths throughout our careers. I admired him greatly. Rest in Peace Tracey!

CHARLIE FORD, USAF WITH YOU IN GERMANY AND PACAF May 5, 2020
Thanks for being you. Peace be with your family

JASON COOK, USAF SMSGT (RET) May 5, 2020
Col Hardwick was the absolute best Commander I had the privilege to serve under. Dog will hunt. Rest in peace, Sir.

CHRISTOPHER HALL, COL, USAF May 5, 2020
Thanks for being an Amazing example of a senoir leader. Thank you for your candid feedback and friendship even in retirement. Please know that your LRO community will miss you dearly! Rest in Peace!

DANIEL HOSLER, LT COL, USAF (RET) May 5, 2020
A one of a kind leader, mentor, and friend. Thanks for everything over the years. You will be sorely missed.

My condolences goes out to the entire Hardwick family.

COLONEL (RET) JIM & DENISE WEBER May 6, 2020
We served together on the AMC Logistics staff. Tracey was an incredible friend and trusted colleague. Whenever I was stressed or feeling down, a trip to Tracey�s desk in the exec�s office was just the injection of fellowship and good cheer I needed to re-energize. We had so looked forward to post-retirement and visiting with him again. See you on the other side, Brother. Jim & Dee.

NICOLE EARP May 6, 2020
This man saved my life with his kindness and empathy. I was beyond fortunate to serve with him through multiple units and assignments. He never forgot me and never let anyone feel lost or alone. Tracy was the example of compassion, leadership and humanity. There are not enough words.
Sir you will be so missed but we will all hold you in our hearts and minds forever.

H. BRENT BAKER, SR., MAJ GEN (RET), USAF May 6, 2020
Rest in peace my friend. I will never forget our time together serving on the PACAF staff and working together on the PACOM JTF. I know you are in Heaven so now I know Heaven must have surfing. Thanks for the friendship and your joyful attitude. You made everything fun. I often think about your retirement and how much fun we had. It was like a 2 hour comedy show. Gloria, I am so sorry for you and your family. You have a wonderful family and I know you will miss this great man and father. Please let me know if I can do anything to help at this time.

JIM PHILLIPS, LT COL (RET.) May 6, 2020
Genuine. Passionate. Loving. You will be missed Preacher. A great leader and friend. We�ll meet again in Heaven, and what a glorious day that will be. Jim

BRIAN MAXWELL May 6, 2020
Colonel Tracy Hardwick was a fantastic officer, serving together at PACOM, he was a class act who ALWAYS made time to mentor and support others, a true gentlemen for whom I have the most respect. I consider myself fortunate to have crossed paths with him, RIP Sir.

KATHY ADAMS May 6, 2020
After reading through the condolences, I realize the time I missed seeing Tracy as a man, a true leader, and a great friend to many. I remember Tracy as a little boy, always moving, agitating, aggravating,me as I was almost 8 years older. He was also funny & kept every laughing when our families got together! We will surely miss you and your funny antics and sunny personality. Rest in peace, Cuz. My deepest sympathy to Aunt Geri. LaDonna, Gloria and the rest of the family.

EDWARD CEBULA, RETIRED 60TH CIVIL ENGINEER DIRT BOY May 6, 2020
I was so sad to hear of his passing. He was one of the most genuine and down to earth people I ever worked with. He always went the extra mile to make you feel important and set you totally at ease. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.

MICHAEL HALE May 6, 2020
Rest easy Sir. You�re are the epitome of Great Leadership and impacted so many. You will be missed. Prayers for your family. Thanks for your service.

LILIA BRUSH May 6, 2020
Beautiful man.. May you rest in Peace Col.. and god take you with wide open arms.

SMSGT ADAM VARGA. May 6, 2020
Gloria and the Hardwick family, Col Hardwick meant so much to the us during the toughest time in our families life. He welcomed us to the PACAF staff and made everything seem not so bad. I enjoyed riding our Harleys together seeing some the best sites and surf spots on Oahu. Your energy made staff work fun and on Aloha Friday�s we could not wait to hear the flower pot play. Even though Mr. White would not like it as much. Sir, we all will miss you very much. Gloria, Kumiko and I always remember your kindness and we cherished our time with you and Col Hardwick. We are truly sorry for your loss. Lovingly Adam and Kumiko

DR. WAYNE C. CLARK, SMSGT, USAF (RETIRED) May 6, 2020
Outstanding leader and mentor. Thank you for having such a positive influence on my life . Your presence will truly be missed. Rest In Peace.

DR. WAYNE C. CLARK, SMSGT, USAF (RETIRED) May 6, 2020
Outstanding leader and mentor. Thank you for having such a positive influence on my life .Your presence will truly be missed. Rest In Peace.

JACK LICATA May 6, 2020
I was on alert with Tracy at 351 SMW where we all worked hard and partied harder. Several old crew dogs did a Zoom call with Tracy a few weeks ago.
He was � The Great Santini� to the end. Tracy you will be one of the reasons I�ll be looking forward to meeting my maker one day.
Hopefully we are going to the same place. RIP brother Tracy.

ALAN BURKE May 6, 2020
We loved Tracy like a brother. He was an exceptional friend, crew partner, workout partner, officer, leader and so much more. He was a warrior. He always said �It was an honor and privilege to Command and lead Airmen�.. He lived life to the fullest and we will miss him dearly. Rest in Peace Brother Tracy.

MICHAEL HERRMANN May 7, 2020
I knew Tracy many years ago. In the time of our teenage innocence,if it�s possible to be a teenager and innocent. Tracy led me to one of my early employments as a mechanic.We worked on his Kaw 500 triple, rode around in his Oldsmobile. We had good times in high school. I never met with him again after the move to Fernandina. It was quite by accident I came across this sad news. I was actually searching to see if Tracy was still in that area .
Tracy , may you be with your Lord and may the Lord shower your family with love in this time of sorrow . Be at peace my friend till we meet again .

COLONEL (RET) JIM & SHARLETTE SILVA May 7, 2020
Gloria�the news of Tracy�s passing breaks our hearts. Tracy was truly a special man�officer, husband, & father. You made a great team and have a beautiful family. We still remember when we started our assignment together in Hawaii in the PACAF A4 and we remember Tracy always smiling at all of our gatherings/picnics/dinners�what great times & memories. The folks around here still talk about the Preacher-man and his great leadership�his laughter and his flower pot (starting Friday pau hana time) singing/dancing was always comic relief lifting all�s spirits. His surfing tales were legendary (the waves must have been 40 feet tall!). We know it doesn�t feel fair that God called him home this soon and we�ll miss him terribly, but he�s in the real paradise now�and he was blessed to have you by his side. Tracy�you�ve slipped the surly bonds of earth and now are touching the face of God�Rest in Peace my bruddah�til we meet again�

SMSGT (RET) MICHAEL AND JANINE JONES May 7, 2020
Col Hardwick Rest In Peace Sir. You will be missed by all who ever met you. Rhein Main, McChord, Travis.

SMSGT (RET) MICHAEL AND JANINE JONES May 7, 2020
Col Hardwick Rest In Peace Sir. You will be missed by all who ever met you. Rhein Main, McChord, Travis.

KEN QUILICI May 7, 2020
Sorry for your loss. Like many I share the same thoughts and prayers. He was one of best commanders I had.

COLONEL (RET) DAVID SMITH May 7, 2020
Deepest condolences to the Hardwick family. Your Air Force family grieves with you. RIP Tracy and Godspeed pal

CATHY DEVERA May 7, 2020
Tracy was a true friend, great colleague, boss and leader. His strong faith and genuine concern for all was inspiring. Always a pleasure to be around. Gone too soon. Rest In Peace friend. Prayers for Gloria and your beautiful family.

SMSGT DAVID AND CHRISTINE JACKSON (RET) May 7, 2020
A wonderful human being and true leader. My fondest memories of serving with him on the PACAF staff was his �motivational� PT sessions and our annual Swamp Romp team. You always knew when he entered the room. One of my first interactions with him, he asked �Feel your head, do you feel any lumps? Well you will after this meeting�. Heaven is a lot more louder now. You will be missed.

MSGT SAMUEL LOUIE (RET) May 8, 2020
You are a great leader and mentor. I will always remember the joys of bumping into you on TDY�s in the sand box, McChord and Travis. I hope to be half the leader you have been. You will be truly missed.

CMSGT KEVIN AND TAM FRESE May 8, 2020
It saddens to hear a wonder leader, boss and true mentor leave so early. I was very fortunate to have worked for him for over two years in Hawaii. His pace and exuberance is top notch, both at work and during our PT sessions. The care he displayed was always felt knowing the Col was taking care of you and your family. The flowerpot has played its last note here, but will forever play in haven. God, he is in your hands, take care of him for us!

LT COL (RET) ROSALYN WALKER May 8, 2020
So sadden to learn of your passing. The world has lost such a great leader and man of God. Thanking God for all the laughs, advice, mentoring, and examples of an awesome leader. Rest In Peace.

BLANE LOPEZ May 8, 2020
LEADER,
MENTOR AND
WARRIOR!
RIP SIR.
AD ASTRA PER ARDUA

LARRY STEPHENS, COL, USAF (RET) May 8, 2020
We�ve lost a good man, a friend to everyone he met. What a personality he had, always outgoing, positive and full of humor. I recall just prior to leaving Hickam AFB the PACAF/LG, Brig Gen Peyer, handed me a list of colonels asking for my advice on who she might consider as the new PACAF/LGT. Tracy was one of 8 names. I immediately handed the list back and told her to hire Tracy quickly as possible. I said that, while he is a good friend, my recommendation was based on Tracy�s outstanding leadership abilities and exemplary track record. I guaranteed Tracy would ensure that division�s morale and performance would quickly outshine that of the other divisions. Of course, the general hires him and Tracy�s leadership was spectacular. Goodbye, my friend, my deepest condolences to your family. Until we meet again, SALUTE.

DION ROWLAND May 8, 2020
RIP Tracy.. You were always number 1. It was an honor to know you and go to school with you. Thanks for the memories. See you on the other side

REGGIE ROBINSON, COLONEL (RET) May 8, 2020
Preacher was a force of nature and his memory lives on through the many lives he touched. You always walked away from a conversation with him feeling better, more optimistic and determined. To Gloria and the entire Hardwick family, may God bring you comfort during this difficult time. Rest better knowing there is another angel in heaven looking down on you all right now. �We drink to those who gave their all of old,
Then down we roar to score the rainbow�s pot of gold.
A toast to the host of men we boast, the U.S. Air Force!�

BILL WHITE May 8, 2020
My heart truly breaks for the loss of Tracy Hardwick. Tracy was to me, a one of a kind person, never hiding his faith , and always full of love and hope and inspiration. His personality was one of true positivity and passion, like I�ve never seen before. He was loved by all. The Great Santini was a gentleman, leader, motivator, preacher, and a true friend that everyone will miss. I am so thankful and blessed to have had Tracy in my life. He was a great inspiration to me when I was a young second Lieutenant at Whiteman Air Force Base. It is hard for me to believe that he is gone. He was larger than life and he leaves such a huge void that can only be filled by his memories. God bless you Tracy and your family. We will miss you.

ANGELA DAVIDSON May 9, 2020
I was so sad to hear of Tracy�s passing. I consider it an honor to have met him. We had many wonderful conversations. He was so easy to talk to & listened intently. I would like to extend my gratitude for his lengthy & prestigious military service. He was kind & had such compassion for others. He loved his family dearly. He set the finest example of how every one of us should live life & treat others. Know that in the short time I had the pleasure of knowing him, he made an enormous impression upon me.
I am so very sorry for your loss.
With my deepest sympathy, know that your family is in my prayers. Heaven has, without a doubt, welcomed another �Angel� Home. I will always remember the sparkle in his eyes as he told his stories with such enthusiasm! May God wrap each of Tracy�s family members in His merciful loving arms & provide comfort & peace. Treasure your lifelong memories of this amazing person. He was truly �one of a kind�!
Sincerely,
Angela Davidson, RN, OCN

ART BELL,CMSGT, RET May 9, 2020
Col Hardwick was the best. A great officer and gentleman. We first met at Rhein Main AB and then again at Travis. RIP my friend. Condolences to the family. Art Bell.

JAMES S. NANCE, MSGT (RET) May 9, 2020
Still trying to comprehend that the Forever Man has left us. Preacher man was that Idol for me and I would look up to him in so many ways from Leadership to Physical Fitness and most importantly as a Family Man. Gloria and the remainder of the family, my deepest condolences to each of you do this difficult transition. Surfs Up Preacher Man!

BOBBY WEED May 9, 2020
A dear and true friend dating back to working together at Amelia Island Plantation in the 70�s.
Always stayed in touch, as time between visits never mattered �was always like old times once connected.
You touched so many in your profession and your Dad and family were so proud of you .
Traded phone calls last week and while we did not connect, I know all that were your friends and family benefitted, as �we are not human beings having a spiritual experience�we are spiritual beings having a human experience � �
Can�t wait to reconnect, my kindred spirit !!

MSGT. VICKI AND MSGT. GARY HADDIX USA F (RETIRED) May 9, 2020
Tracy was a true friend. Tracy did light up a room and always made you feel special Tracy was a fighter to the end and always had faith in Jesus. I know Tracy is in heaven and was a good and faithful servant her on earth. Rest In Peace. We will see you again in heaven. God bless and comfort all his family and friends. We will always miss and love you Tracy.

MSGT ANGELA M. GREEN HAYES(RETIRED) May 9, 2020
I�m completely broken hearted to hear that you are no longer with us. You were there for me during the most trying years of my Air Force career and are one of the reasons I was able to move on successfully. You performed my re-enlistment ceremony. The advice you gave me in 2007 is the same advice I give others today. You are one of the best commanders I�ve ever worked with and you legacy will live on.

MARSHA AND DAN HARRELL May 9, 2020
We loved Tracy because he was ours but I see how the world loved him also. We will miss him greatly and see now how the world lost a true Angel on earth thank you for all the wonderful things you said wish we could sit with each one and share stories Marsha K Harell and family (cousin)

CAT & TOM DILLON May 9, 2020
It still feels so surreal! One of my favorite best human being I�ve ever had the honor of knowing. He, Gloria, and Janisa always treated me and Tom like family. Tracy is in heaven now with his radiant face and beautiful smile, making everyone laugh. He�s reunited with his pops and other loved ones. His passing left a huge, deeply painful empty space in all our hearts. The only thing that comforts me is knowing we will see him again and I thank the good Lord for that. We love you very much Tracy!! See you later!!

KARN CARLSON May 9, 2020
Tracy was a good man and a great officer. He served as a mentor and helped me transition into my first Joint assignment at SOUTHCOM. He continued serving as a role model and example. Gone, but not forgotten.

CHRIS & ASHLEY DUPUIS May 9, 2020
Gloria and family you are in our prayers. Preacher Man was one who left us all better people. A man of leadership, service and just simply a joy to be around. He will be missed!

TIM & LAVERN SPILLANE May 9, 2020
It is with deep sympathy and great sorrow that we offer our condolences in the loss of Col Hardwick. Tracy was a hell of a nice guy & a great person & leader, and this was certainly reflected in his presence. May you know peace and may your spirit find rest and comfort. Take care my friend; our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the good Lord bless you all and keep you in the hollow of his hand,,, Rest in Peace Sir. You will be missed by all who ever met you.

~ Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away ~

BEVERLY MICHAEL May 10, 2020
Dearest Gloria. I just heard the news. I am saddened bye the loss of a wonderful man. May God give you peace and strength to get through this time of Sorrow.

JEFF LEKNES May 10, 2020
Tracy was one of those larger than life type of officers in the best sense of the word. Sorry to hear of his passing.

COLIN MOENING, LT COL USAF (RET) May 11, 2020
An inspiration who will be greatly missed. Prayers and condolences for the Hardwick family.

MELISSA JOY DANGERFIELD May 11, 2020
I am so sorry to hear of my cousin, a Tracy�s passing. It is, indeed a tragedy for all who knew him. In the past year we had rekindled our friendship and for that I am grateful. In my last visit with Tracy and Gloria, we talked about the importance of family and God in our lives. As we prayed together, I could feel the presence of the Lord. I will forever cherish his memory.

CASEY SCHARVEN May 11, 2020
It�s not supposed to be this way. Was in the 435APS and 4MAPS with Tracy � and he had one end of the 4th and I had the other during the 90-91 Gulf War. Southern accent always got deeper when he was telling a story. One of my bosses, and a friend. Will miss him.

O.J. AND ROBIN PADEWAY May 12, 2020
Our hearts are heavy upon hearing this news. Great person, wonderful friend, and exceptional leader. Heaven has gained an angel for sure!

TIGER AND ALISON HESSION May 14, 2020
Gloria, Alison and I are so sorry for your loss. Preacher man, your family and you are in our prayers. What an awesome person we�ve all lost.

BILL MAYO May 14, 2020
Gloria & All, It was tough to learn of Tracy�s passing. Glad we got to meet you Gloria (in Hawaii at our house for dinner). I was shocked as I always thought of him as the picture of health. Be safe and Tracy will always be fondly remembered.

V AND TONY LANGFORD May 16, 2020
You never know a person�s worth until they are gone. It is so true Col. I cannot tell you how honored I am to have worked for you and to have you as a mentor. You knew the �value� of a person no matter what rank they were. You gave time and an ear to those who needed it. The �coach� in you dragged those poor Commanders into grueling PT sessions. Your pranks and jokes make me laugh � pulling over Ms Karen in your govt vehicle with full on lights and siren is a good one. I will never forget the kindness both you and Ms Gloria have given me and my ohana.
Ms Gloria, Janisa, Hunter, Megan and ohana, you have lost a wonderful person but have gained a new Guardian Angel who is with you always.
Just recently we had a military flyby and I said to myself �that Sir is for you!� With a waive of my old MSG green hat, a shaka and a salute, I say �Mahalo, a hui hou and fond Aloha! ALL HU-AH ALL DO-AH!�

MATT GETTY May 16, 2020
I caught a wave for you today Tracy and will always cherish the waves we caught together. You taught me so much and continue to have so much influence on the officer I am today. I�m heartbroken you are gone but can feel your smile from above. You�ve left a legacy my good friend. You and Gloria and Janisa always made me feel like family.

JANICE ENGLAND May 20, 2020
I just found out of the passing of Col Hardwick. I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of working for him as a civilian employee at McChord AND. Could not of asked a more caring boss. Sending prayers for you and family during this difficult time.

ROGER DAVIS May 20, 2020
Sad and way too soon. A leader who listen and led. The world is missing a great contributor. Tracy�RIP brother!

ALEX REYNA, CMSGT/GG-13, RETIRED May 20, 2020
Gloria and Family-Sally & I offer our sincere condolences on the passing of Tracy. We just found out the sad news. He was a great Leader and a special Friend. I was honored to serve with him on HQ AMC staff & on the PACAF staff. Tracy truly cared about people, especially those of us who worked for him. He always said good morning to everyone & made us laugh w/his great jokes/stories during staff meetings. When I left Hawaii, Tracy visited us in San Antonio TX & presented me with an award memento for my PACAF service. He made everyone he met feel important and always talked about his great love for his family & His strong faith in God.. You made him a San Diego Charger fan & he always joked that Nick Hardwick was his brother. Tracy was fun to be around and an Angel on earth. Our PACAF A4R musical flower ? pot played and God called him home to Heaven. May God comfort you in your time of sorrow. Tracy will always be in our hearts.? ?? God Bless you

SARA KAY

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