Hildegard Hardy

Hildegard (Gerneth) Hardy, 90, beloved widow of former Rowley Police Chief Robert G. Hardy, passed away just before noon on March 2, 2017. Hilde was well-known and well-loved by the people of Rowley and beyond.  Born Hildegard Gerneth in Fürth, Germany, she came of age in the dark days of World War II. In 1949 she married American serviceman Robert G. Hardy, and a few years later she returned with him to his native Rowley. They raised two children, and when her husband was appointed chief Hilde became the voice of the Rowley Police, operating the radio dispatch from their home on Railroad Avenue. After Chief Hardy’s death in 1973, she travelled, pursued hobbies, and enjoyed the company of friends and family. She loved champagne, laughter, and having a good time, and was widely known as a hot ticket. She will be well and truly missed.  Hilde is survived by a son and daughter, Robert G. Hardy, Jr. and Susan Hardy Belle; two grandchildren, Rhiannon Hardy, daughter of Robert, and Jon Stafford, son of Susan; a sister, Ursula Pöll; two daughters-in-law, Deirdre Castle, mother of Rhiannon, and Mary Lou Hardy, wife of Robert; and a son-in-law, Raymond E. Belle, Jr., husband of Susan. Hilde is predeceased by two brothers, Alfred and Fritz Gerneth.  Her Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in the F. S. Roberts & Son Funeral Home, 14 Independent Street, Rowley. Calling hours will be held prior to the service, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Main Street Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 100 Club of Massachusetts, 100clubmass.org.