Gus Bartels

Friday, November 28, 2008

June 15, 1915 - Nov. 26, 2008

WAUNETA -- Gustav Henry Bartels, 93, died Saturday (Nov. 26, 2008).

He was born June 15, 1915, to Carl and Doris (Fortkamp) Bartels at the family home south of Enders. He was made God's own child through Holy Baptism on June 20, 1915, at the family home. He made public profession of his faith on March 24, 1929, at his confirmation at St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

He attended St. Paul's parochial school through eighth grade. He was active in the Walther League and played in the church band.

He was married to Margie Hansen on June 8, 1947, at St. Paul's. He served in the U. S. Army for 44 months during World War II.

He farmed with his wife, northwest of Stratton for 13 years before moving to the present farm south of Wauneta. He was actively involved in the family farming operation until the day before his death.

He sang in the church choir most of his adult life and held several offices at St. Paul's. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Wauneta Co-op Oil Company.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arnold, Otte. Reinhold, Alfred, Walter and Reuben; and sister, Frieda Crosson.

Survivors include his wife, Margie; two daughters, Kathleen Wicke and husband Lloyd of Littleton, Colo., and Glenda of Denver, Colo.; one son, Stuart and wife, Kathleen of Wauneta; sister, Elsie Becker of Wauneta; three sisters-in-law, Ida Bartels of Wauneta. Wilma Bartels of Enders and Velma Case of Benkelman; special niece, Bonnie Majors and husband, Don of Wauneta; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services were Saturday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in rural Wauneta with the Rev. Keith Wellman officiating. Interment followed at St. Paul's Lutheran Cemetery in rural Wauneta.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Wauneta Medical Clinic.

Liewer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.