On November 25, 2018, Elmer George Bathje (Bart) was called home to Glory. A caretaker was with him at Autumn Leaves memory care facility. He gripped her arm and stated, "I'm going home". Minutes later he breathed his last.

Bart lived with Alzheimer's disease for a decade. He recently celebrated his 85 ^th birthday with family in Wheaton, Illinois. He was born to Elmer August and Viola Johnson Bathje on November 20, 1933. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Dorothy Lenca and Ruth Alexander.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Clark Bathje of 56 years. His legacy includes his 3 children: Daniel (Laura), Beth Harnish (Jim) and Andrew (Katie). His 8 grandchildren: Seth, Emily, Josiah, and Mark Thomas; Toby (Lauren) and Bekah Harnish; Phoebe and Lila.

Bart grew up in Broadview, Illinois and served in the United States Army from 1952-1955. Afterward he worked as a hair stylist and owned Beauty By Bart in Wheaton for almost 40 years. He also managed the beauty salon at Windsor Park since it opened. Many of Bart's joys were spending time with his family, being at his cottage on Green Bay near Menominee, Michigan and participating in his church, Village Green Baptist in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. He was a friend to many, always willing to help, offer a listening ear and encouraging smile.

A memorial service will be held on December 1 at Village Green Baptist Church , 200 S. Lambert Road, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137. Visitation from 10 until 11 AM with a service and fellowship meal to follow. Private burial at Chapel Hill Gardens West in Elmhurst, IL.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Village Green Baptist Church , AdventureServe Ministries (PO Box 127, Wilmore, KY, 40390), or a Charity of choice.