Merle Eugene Bartness

Merle Eugene Bartness, 90, of Ellendale, a devoted farmer and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, at the Mayo Clinic in Austin, MN.

Born on May 3, 1935, in Hartland Township, MN, he was a son of the late Martin and Minnie (Johnson) Bartness. Merle lived a life rooted in hard work and dedication, spending many years as a dairy farmer in Ellendale, MN, where he raised his family and cultivated deep ties to his community. Merle was married to Marjorie (Utpadel) Bartness, and together they raised four children: Michelle, Martin, Michael, and Mark. He often found comfort in simple pleasures, from tinkering and building cars to fishing trips up North at their seasonal campsite. Merle's love for the outdoors was matched only by his skillful hands, which crafted solutions to everyday problems. He was an early riser, beginning each day with the dawn, and would often listen to the Minnesota Vikings games while milking cows. Merle possessed a remarkable memory and enjoyed reading the newspaper and working on jigsaw puzzles. His ability to recall stories and share experiences made him a beloved figure among family and friends. Merle will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, warm spirit, and the cherished moments he shared with his loved ones.

Those left to cherish Merle’s memory include his children, Shelly Bartness (Chuck Holtz), Martin (Denise), Michael (Cindi), and Mark (Kelly) Bartness; grandchildren, Matthew Bartness, Samuel Bartness, Brandon (Nicole) Bartness, Derek (Alexis) Bartness, Noelle (Derek) Wiza, Nicholas (Meredith) Bartness, and Holly Bartness; great-grandchildren, Noah, Jersey, Emmersyn and Rowan; a sister, Jean Holland; and several nieces, nephews and extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Martin and Minnie Bartness, Merle was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie Bartness; brothers, Vernon (Babe), Carrol (Ivadell), Mervin (LaVonne), Donnie (Jean) and Delano (Dode); sisters, Doris (Howard) and Elaine (Eugene) brother-in-law, Elvern.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Service, with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the service. Burial will be held at First Lutheran Cemetery in Ellendale.