Michael R. Bartelt's Obituary
Michael R. Bartelt ("Mr. Bartelt"/"Mr. Mike"), age 75, died on Monday, June 3, 2024 at Hilo Medical Center. Michael was a Viet Nam veteran and completed his military career with retirement from the Hawaii Air National Guard in 1997. He worked in the food service industry most of his life beginning as a cook in the Army. As a School Food Service Manager, Michael took pride in running the cafeterias in Waiakea Elementary, Intermediate and High School campuses, finishing his career in 2009 at Mt. View Elementary School. He had a special love for the children who ate at his cafeteria table and they for him. Michael was an avid reader throughout his life and operated a used bookstore in Hilo from 1995-2011. His quick wit and endless jokes brought a smile and laugh to many.
Michael is survived by his former wife of fifty-one years, Margaret, brothers David, Bill, Tom(Peggy), Andy and Jeffrey; sisters Julie(Mark) and Marie; sisters-in-law Jean(Robert) and Joyce(Bob); brothers-in-law Fred(Marilyn), Luke(Ellen) and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grand-nephews. Michael made many friends and business associates on the Big Island over the years. Mahalo to hospital staff, especially in the ICU, who cared for Michael during his final weeks of his earthly life. Additionally, special thanks to family friend, Allison Ford, who has lived, along with her dogs, in Michael’s house in recent months and will continue to do so in the future.
Private services and scattering of ashes at a later date. Shared memories are welcomed as well as condolences to Margaret A. Bartelt, P.O. Box 425, Kurtistown, HI 96760.
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