Reuben C. Bartels

ROCHESTER, MN: Reuben Carl Bartels, 95, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Monday, February 11, 2013 at St. Marys Hospital. Reuben was born September 14, 1917 in Elma, IA to Paul and Wilhelmenia (Prinz) Bartels. On July 26, 1939, Reuben married Dorothy Zobeck at St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Lime Springs, Iowa. The couple had one child, a daughter, Gail. Reuben farmed until he and Dorothy moved to Rochester in 1962 where he then became a cook at theRochester State Hospital until his retirement. Reuben was a veteran of the US Army, proudly serving his country during WWII. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge returning home with military honors including the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star. He was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, American Legion, V.F.W. and the D.A.V. Reuben enjoyed reading, fishing, football, baseball, history, having coffee with friends; but above all he loved spending time and making memories with his wife, daughter, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. Reuben is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Dorothy; daughter, Gail Loucks of Rochester; grandchildren, Lisa (David) Loucks-Christenson, Brian (Katie) Loucks, Heather (Jim) Apple all of Rochester, Michael (Krista) Loucks of Charlotte, NC; 13 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Reuben was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Ruth Nolda, his son-in-law, Terry Loucks; and his granddaughter, Lauri Burt. A funeral service will be held 1:00pm Friday, February 15, 2013 at Bethel Lutheran Church, 810 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester with the Rev. Dr. Norman Wahl officiating. Visitation will be held from 11:00am until time of service. Entombment will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com. Arrangements entrusted to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester.