Denise Iris Bartness

Denise “Dee” Iris Bartness, 78, passed peacefully into rest on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at her home after spending a joyous week with her husband, Patrick, their children, grandchildren and dear friends both local and from the past.

Dee was born on December 8, 1944 in Cheltenham, England. In 1964 she emigrated to the United States settling in Omaha, Nebraska. She started her lifelong passion with healthcare as an EMT in Omaha, then as the ER Manager at Bergen Mercy Hospital. She met Patrick and they were married in 1977. Following a six-year tour of duty with the USAF at RAF Mildenhall, England, they returned to Offutt AFB in Omaha. Dee returned to Bergen Mercy as the Neonatal Care Manager.

Following assignments at both Andrews AFB, MD and Robins AFB, GA they retired from the USAF only to begin their second career at the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins. They retired for good 20 years later in 2017.

Dee was an involved, active member at the All Saints Episcopal Church. She was proud of her work with the All Saints Group who knitted prayer shawls and other items for those who were ill or in need. She loved her church family and her many lifelong friends among the congregation.

Dee was diagnosed with cancer in 2019; fighting a relentless three-and-a-half-year battle against three different forms of that disease with grace, strength and infectious positive attitude. Her goal was to always uplift those around her, especially those with cancer. She was always positive!

Dee is proceeded in death by her parents, Hank and Ivy Harris.

Her memory will forever be treasured by her loving husband of 45 years, Col. Patrick Bartness; their sons, Robert “Rob” Bartness (Kelli) and Martin Bartness (Danielle); grandchildren Emma, Meghan and Liam Bartness, brother Andrew Harris, nephew Simon Excel; and a host of other family members and beloved friends.

A memorial service celebrating Dee’s life will be held Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 2:00pm at All Saints Episcopal Church in Warren Robins, GA.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.