Chris Darien Bartels

Chris Darien Bartels, 62, of Gonzales passed away Tuesday, Dec. 26, at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio. He was born Friday, June 17, 1955 in Gonzales, the son of the late John A. Bartels Sr. and Doris Henson-Bartels of Austin.

Chris was a well-respected auto mechanic by trade and truck driver for many years who also enjoyed motorcycles, racing cars at a young age across the 183 River Bridge with his friends, flying his RC airplanes, hunting, shooting, skiing out at Lake Wood and was known as “Big Mac 706” on his CB radio. His favorite past time hobby was sitting outside squirrel and bird watching with his best four-legged buddy, Slick. Papa might had been a big man, but he had a bigger heart, especially for his eight grandkids who each have their own unique nickname that was given to them by Chris. His grandkids also enjoyed receiving their first blow pop at a very young age as well as getting bubble gum at every visit.

He is survived by his lifelong partner of 30 years, Sandra Benes. Upon entering Sandra’s life, he gained four bonus daughters that he was very proud of and loved like his own: Kristy May-Knippa of Victoria, Krystal Pullin (James), Kena May-Bairrington and Kendra May (Joe Riojas) all of Gonzales. Grandchildren include: Matthew “Beavis” Pullin, Haley “Sneaky Snake” Bairrington, Marcus “Butthead” Pullin, Kylee “Dots” Bairrington, Kamryn “Chili Pepper” Riojas, Jaxen “Opossum Gut” Riojas, Print “Potty Boy” Knippa and John “Enchilada” Riojas, as well as his four-legged fur ball friend he called “Sugar Booger.”

Chris is preceded in death by his father, step-mother, Alma Dietz-Bartels, brother, John “Jay” Bartels Jr. and his best four-legged buddy, Slick.

A committal service will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 7, at the Woodmen of the World Cemetery/Gonzales Memorial Park Pavilion. Friends may leave condolences to the family by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Seydler Hill Funeral Home of Gonzales.