Bart L. Orth, 71, of Burlington, died after an almost two-year battle with cancer and a longtime survivor of heart disease on Oct. 10, 2023. He was always keeping the faith. Bart was born on Jan. 1, 1952, to Albert and Marion Hamilton Orth. Bart married Ellen on Oct. 13, 1973. He was a devoted husband and father, always proud of his three sons, Wesley, Logan, and Skyler. Bart was known to drop everything and come to the aid of his children whether it be day or night. He loved fixing things and had patience and determination while even fixing the smallest of objects that could have been bought, but instead, he found value in all items and rarely threw anything away. Bart loved trees and he had planted many over the years. He retired from J.I. Case Company after 30 years. He was a good friend, and could always be counted on for a helping hand to do anything needed. He was a wonderful carpenter, even building a beautiful new kitchen several years ago with all the special “Bart” designs. He never said, “I can’t do that.”; he just got the right tools and learned. Always, the consummate perfectionist – and if it wasn’t right, he’d tear it up and start over without complaining. Bart loved his cat Ellie Mae, who lived to be 19 years old, and our dog, Meisha.
Bart was a devoted member of Asbury United Methodist Church. He was especially proud of the cross he lovingly made so that while the older children were lighting the candles, the smaller ones had a chance to go ahead of them and carry the cross to the sanctuary and not feel left out. He loved to sing and play his guitar and often took it with him for family events. He sang in the church choir for many years and played his guitar and sang solos and duets for his Savior. He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers Henry, Pete, and Albert Jr. in infancy, and sister, Sharon Carspecken.
Survivors include his wife, Ellen of 50 years; three sons, Wesley (Julie), Logan (April) of Burlington and Skyler (Kellie) of New London. He is also survived by his family, Tom (Judy) Orth, Dan (Susan) Orth, Tim (Bambi) Orth, Rick (Carrie) Orth, Tony (Carol) Orth all of Burlington; Beth (Landis) Hinesley of New Mexico; sister-in-law Kathy Orth of Burlington; and sister-in-law, Sherry Orth of Utah and several loving nieces and nephews; three step-grandchildren, Jenna Swisher (Wynston Gray), Jacob Bench (Kylie), and Jack Banks.
At this time there will be no formal service, but a celebration of life will be planned next summer as per his wishes. Cremation has been entrusted to Lunning Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Asbury United Methodist Church.