Gene Bartels, 78, of North Webster, passed away on March 22, 2015 at his home.

He was born in Garrett, on March 6, 1937, to the late Chester and Helen (Griswold) Bartels. On Nov. 22, 1958, he married his wife of 56 years, Barbara (Crow) Bartels, who survives.

He was a member of the Calvary United Methodist Church in Syracuse, as well as the American Legion Post #253 having served in the US Army Reserve. He retired after 18 years as the Maintenance Director of Epworth Forest Conference Center. He enjoyed gardening, word puzzles, newspapers and woodworking.

He is survived by his wife: Barbara Bartels, North Webster; two sons: Randy Bartels, Indianapolis; and Mike Bartels, Golden, Colo.; one granddaughter: Madison Bartels, Indianapolis; two grandsons: Baley Bartels, Indianapolis; and Degan Bartels, Golden; one sister: Linda (Denny) Davids, Garrett; one brother: Wayne (Pat) Bartels, Garrett.

He was preceded by an infant daughter: Deborah Bartels in 1965.

There will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 26, at the Eastlund Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, March 26, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the North Webster Community Center.