Harold Edward Bartsh

Harold Edward Bartsh, 96, of St. Charles MN passed away Tuesday June 9th, 2020 at St. Charles Assisted Living. Harold was born on September 6th, 1923 in Winona County to Albert and Frances (Waters) Bartsh. He was raised on a farm in Fairwater along with his four older brothers. Harold graduated from St. Charles High School in 1942. He served as a Gunner's Mate in the Navy from 1943-1945 during the last push in the Pacific. His ship, the USS Pittsburg, lost 100 feet of its bow during a typhoon off the coast of Japan. He was always proud to say "they never lost a man!"
Harold married Gladys Marie Henry on October 27th, 1944 in Boston MA. After the war, he bought his first truck which was the start of his lifelong career in the grain business. Harold and Gladys moved to Utica where they were active members of the community and raised their two daughters. After retirement, they settled in St. Charles.
He was preceded in death by his wife Gladys in 1999. They were married for 55 years. He is survived by his daughters Linda (Keith) Wilson of St. Charles and JoEllen (Chris) Searcy of Boston, MA, three grandchildren, Sara (Wilson) Muller of Ankeny, IA, Chad (Carmen) Wilson of Ames, IA, Lyssa Searcy of San Francisco, CA, and 6 great grandchildren, Macy and Ryan Muller, Brynn, Esther, Aidan and Dane Wilson
Hard work, love for family and the joy of travel were the pillars of his life. Harold passed those attributes along to his children and grandchildren who he inspired and loved so much. He was a prankster with a twinkle in his eye. He was serious but always found a way to have a good time. He had a kind generous soul that touched the lives of many who were lucky enough to know him. It is fair to say that throughout his life he was always a thoughtful, positive, "can do" man. He will be dearly missed.
There will be a private family service at a later date. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Utica. Please share a memory of Harold at his on-line guestbook and view his video tribute, when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com. Cards of sympathy may be mailed to Hoff Funeral Home, PO Box 576, St. Charles, MN 55972. Hoff Funeral and Cremation Service of St. Charles is assisting the family with arrangements.