Obituary of William J. Bartels

William J. Bartels, affectionately known by many as “Billy” passed away peacefully at his home in the Indian Lake section of Denville, New Jersey, on July 29, 2025, at the age of 87.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on July 2, 1938, Bill was the beloved son of the late William Harry Bartels and Catherine (Morrison). He spent his early years in North Bergen, New Jersey and began summering in Indian Lake in1943, a cherished tradition that would shape much of his life. In 1969, his parents made Indian Lake their permanent home.

Bill was a dedicated small business owner, having operated a greeting card store in West New York, NJ for many years. Later in life, he served as a loyal and dependable night dispatcher for McCarter’s Towing in Denville for 19 years. During his years as dispatcher, he developed many friendships with various members of the Denville Police Department, the Denville Fire Department, and the New Jersey State Police.

Bill will be remembered by those who lived amongst him for his simple and meaningful life and his constant, incredibly upbeat and fun personality.

Bill is survived by his best friend, his dog, Basil, his loyal and loving companion; his devoted friend, Megan (McCarter) Barchetto of Denville, New Jersey and his long-time dear friends, the McCarter family whose enduring friendship brought him joy and companionship throughout the years. He is also survived by many helpful and loving friends as well his dedicated, loving, and fun team of hardworking care takers.

Bill is predeceased by his parents, his dogs, Scotchie and Katie as well as his cherished and devoted friend Judith McCarter.

If you would like to continue Bill’s legacy in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to either the Denville Local PBA 142, or to the Denville Fire Department Association. Memorial donations can be made via inmemof.org.

Hours of public visitation for Bill will be held from 11 AM to 12:45 PM on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Norman Dean Home for Services. Prayer Service will begin at 12:45 pm. A procession will follow to Denville Cemetery for a graveside service immediately after. Please join us to celebrate Bill’s life, and please leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Bill’s light shine!