David L. Bartles

January 20, 1936 - September 1, 2017

Columbia—Mr. David L. Bartles, 81, of Columbia passed away on September 1, 2017, at Carolina Gardens at Harbison, Irmo, SC. Born in Columbus, Georgia on January 20, 1936, he was the son of the late David Oliver Bartles and Emma Lou Roberts Bartles. Following high school, Dave joined the United States Marine Corp and proudly served his country from 1954-1958 as a Drill Instructor at Paris Island, S.C. He later served in the Army National Guard band for 20 years entertaining at special events and parades throughout South Carolina. Dave received his undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of South Carolina and a Master`s degree from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. While attending USC, he joined the South Carolina Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer where he was honored as the Correction Officer of the Year. After a successful career with the Department, Dave retired as Director of Classification. Dave loved boating and was an active member of the Lake Murray Power Squadron. He also enjoyed working with stain glass and continued his love of music until his death. Dave was an active member of St. Michael’s Lutheran Church and most recently a member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Mrs. Fredna Wheeler Bartles; step-sons Thomas J. Little Jr. (Lucy) of Columbia, Scott W. Little (Diane) of Fort Mill, SC.; half-brothers Donald Larry Bartles (Sandy) of Columbus, GA. and Robert C. Bartles (Patti) of Baxley, GA.; grandchildren Jennifer Helmly (Michael) of Columbia, SC, Lauren Powers (Jay) of Columbia, SC, Tyler Little (Ashley) of Trussville, AL and Brent Little of Fredericksburg, VA; Great grandchildren Hunter and Lucy Gray Helmly, Jamison and Caroline Powers, and Grayson, Connor and Caroline Little, and his cousin Anne Burke of Vandalia, OH. The family would like to recognize the staff at Carolina Gardens at Harbison, Gale Bostick of Senior Matters, All Seasons Hospice and Dr. Stan McCloy for their support and care. Special gratitude is extended to his caring niece Michelle Galarneau RN, of West Columbia, SC. for her endless vigilance of her uncle. The funeral service will be held at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 1541 Lake Murray Boulevard, Columbia, S.C. 29212 at 1:00 on September 15, 2017 with Reverend Paul Sizemore as officiant. Inurnment will follow in the Columbarium at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Mt Olive Lutheran Church, 1541 Lake Murray Boulevard, Columbia, S.C. 29212 or Harvest Hope, 2220 Shop Road, Columbia, SC 29201.