William "Hodge" Bartling

William Henry Bartling, affectionately known by all as "Hodge," passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, at the age of 75.

Hodge was born on September 15, 1950, in Burke, South Dakota. A true son of the plains, he was a man who appreciated the simple, honest pleasures of life and carried the steady, hardworking spirit of his South Dakota roots in everything he did. Hodge was baptized and confirmed in the Grace Lutheran Church in Burke, SD, beginning a life grounded in faith and community.

Hodge dedicated over 40 years to the hardware business before his retirement. He took immense pride in his work, and over the decades, he became a fixture in the lives of his customers. To Hodge, those he served weren't just patrons; they were neighbors and friends. He was known for his expertise, his reliability, and the genuine friendships he built across the counter.

Hodge played softball in his younger days with the Gregory Gators and the Burke Buzzards. Later in life, he became an avid dart player, a passion that took him to the yearly state dart tournament and provided years of fun and friendship. When he wasn't competing, he was a loyal fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins, riding the highs and lows of every season with the dedication of a lifelong supporter. His favorite place to find peace, however, was on the Missouri River. Whether he was waiting for a bite on his line or simply enjoying the water, the river was his sanctuary.

Above all else, Hodge was a family man. His greatest joy in life was his role as a husband, father, and especially a grandfather. His face lit up whenever his grandkids came to visit, and he cherished the laughter and energy they brought into his home.

Hodge is survived by his loving wife, Melinda "Linda" Bartling of Gregory; his daughter, Amanda Velarde and husband Anthony of Omaha, NE; and his son, Gregg Bartling and wife Kari of Baltic, SD. He was the proud grandfather of Will and Sam Mahan of Omaha; MaKay VanDerSchaaf and husband Keenan of Sioux Falls; Gaige Bartling of Baltic; and Sr. Airman TayAnn Bartling, currently serving at Holloman AFB, New Mexico. He is also survived by his brothers, Edward "Ed" Bartling of Burke and Robert "Bob" Bartling of Tyndall, and his beloved "pet children": Big, Snoop Dog, Oakley, Petey, and Spike. He leaves behind many friends who will cherish their time spent and the memories made with him on the river, at the dart board, and in the stands.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and June Bartling, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, and relatives.

A celebration of Hodge's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Prairie View Gospel Barn. In honor of his favorite teams and his casual nature, the family welcomes guests to wear their Vikings or Twins attire to the service.

"Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure."