Leonard Dean Bartels

On February 12, 2024, Leonard Dean Bartels went to be with the Lord. Leonard was 83 years & 2 days old. His body just wore out and God said, “Come home.” Leonard was born on February 10, 1941, in Herkimer, KS to William & Viola Bartels.

Leonard worked in Marysville, KS, for many years, then he went to work for Richard Tuma on the farm. While working for Richard he was involved in a bad accident in 1966. He eventually ended up losing his leg because of it.

Leonard married Pat Miller on August 12, 1978. They were married over 40 years and lived in Mahaska and eventually moved to Washington at retirement. Pat & Leonard both worked at Fairbury Sale Barn Café for years.

He is survived by his sister Jeanette Bigham of Topeka, KS, nephews Kent & Kevin Bigham, Ron, Matt, Clint, Bill Bartels & niece Jana Bartels. He is also survived by stepchildren Judy Nold, Jerry Miller, Richard Miller, Pat Livingston, Chris Miller, Tony Miller, Diana Cecrle, Jane Rhine, Matt Miller, Ed Miller and many step-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William & Viola (Lohse) Bartels and stepfather Perry Lohse, his wife Patricia L’Ecuyer Miller Bartels, brother LeRoy Bartels, brother-in-law Mert Bigham and stepdaughter Linda Miller Vacek.

Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustine, Catholic Church in Washington, KS with a rosary on Wednesday at 5:30 at the church. Memorial gifts to be given to the family or charity of their choice. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.