Gordon Bartels, 82

Gordon Bartels, 82, of Billings, formerly of Bigfork, passed away on Nov. 15, 2006, at his home, following a lengthy illness. Gordon was born in Wichita Falls, Texas, on Oct. 27, 1924, to Earl J. and Gladys Bartels. Gordon graduated from high school in Artesia, N.M.

Following high school, he went on to the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colo. His education was interrupted by World War II, at which time he enlisted in the Navy. Gordon was a gunner and was stationed in the South Pacific until war's end and was honorably discharged in 1946.

Gordon went on to study drafting and later became an architect. For three years of his education he had the privilege to study photography at the California School of Fine Arts, under the photographer and teacher Ansel Adams.

He obtained his architecture license in California. His scope of design was on a grand scale. His work ranged from high rises in major cities to a ranch home for quarterback, Joe Montana. Although architecture was his profession, photography was something he equally enjoyed, having some of his photos published in Montana Magazine.

Upon "retirement" he and his wife, Josephine, moved to Western Montana where he designed several homes in the Bigfork area. They resided there for 18 years until moving to Billings in May 2006 to be closer to family.

Gordon is survived by his wife of 27 years, Josephine Bartels, of Billings; sons, Douglas McShane and Catherine Phillips of Billings, and Darren Bartels and Mary of Buckley, Wash.; grandchildren, Marina and Marissa of Washington and Rhianna, Chris, Sean, Dylan, Loreena and Kelsey of Montana; as well as five great-grandchildren in Montana.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has taken place and memorial services are being held at 10:30 a.m. today, Nov. 18, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary in Billings.

Memorials may be given in Gordon's name to the charity of one's choice or All Nations Church, c/o Eunice Terry, 413 Everett, Billings, MT 59102.

Arrangements are under the direction of Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary.