Rev. William R. Bartels “Bill’ was called home to Jesus on Thursday, December 3, 2020, at the age of 75 with his wife at his bedside. Loving husband of Judy for 48 years. Devoted dad of Benjamin (Jessica), Christine (Mohamed) Eid and Sarah Stark (Tim). Proud Papa of Kameryn, Kaleb and Adel. He was born in Sturgis, MI to Walter and Lilah Bartels on November 18, 1945. Brother of Charles (Lois) and David (May). Favorite uncle to nieces and nephews. Further survived by other family members and friends. Preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Beverly and Barbara.
As a child Bill grew up on Fish Lake in LaGrange, Indiana where he created many fond memories with family. He earned his mechanical and electrical engineering degrees from the Indiana Institute of Technology. Bill proudly served his country as a member of the US Army during the Vietnam War, stationed at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Following military service, he began a many year career with General Electric Medical Systems.
Bill was known for the love he had for our Lord and Savior and the compassion he demonstrated to his family, friends, and strangers. Bill was called into God’s ministry, completing his Masters in Divinity while attending Anderson University School of Theology in Indiana. Ordained to pastoral ministry at the New Springfield Church of God, Ohio. Bill later returned to engineering, continuing to minister and share the gospel of Jesus Christ, faithfully witnessing to family and all he met.
He will be remembered as a Jack of all trades capable of fixing almost anything, his humor, his poetry, his scavenger-game creations and enjoyment of traveling the world. He emphasized the importance of family being together and making special memories.
Bill will be missed by his loving family, friends, and all who knew him, yet we rejoice with him upon entrance into his eternal home with our Lord Jesus Christ.
Visitation will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin, on Saturday, December 12, 2020, 12:00 PM – 1:45 PM. Celebration of Life at 2:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Milwaukee Rescue Mission, The Salvation Army, or Evangelical Child and Family Agency.