Troy Bentlage

A life well lived in faith and family

Troy’s life began in Bates County, Missouri, where he was born in the front yard of the family home, under an elm tree. With no electricity, the farmhouse was too hot inside on that August day. As the eighth of nine siblings, Troy spent his formative years growing up and working on the family farm.

Moving to Columbia at age 16, Troy graduated from Hickman High School and attended the University of Missouri for one year. Troy ventured to Alaska where he worked at Union Oil Company then to San Francisco where he was manager of operations at California Electric. Ultimately, he returned to Columbia where he met his future wife Joan, settled down and raised three children. He started a successful business with his brother Ervin that spanned five decades – Bentlage Brothers – building houses in Columbia and raising cattle on a farm in Ashland. Troy also served in the Air Force Reserves 1957-1961 and was called up to active duty during the Berlin Crisis 1961-1963.

In later years, Troy enjoyed adventures around the world with Joan to far off places like New Zealand and Australia, Tanzania, Thailand, South America, Canada, and Mexico.

The consummate family man, Troy was a doting husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who passed on his belief in a strong work ethic. He would always give expert advice or lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed.

Troy is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Joan; his children, Ken, Dave (Sunny), and Margaret (Don); his grandchildren, David (Amanda), Troy (Amy), Brett, Blake, Caleb (Hayley), Blaine, Grace, and Porter; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Charles; and a host of nieces and nephews and extended family.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, six sisters, one brother, and his granddaughter, Whitney.

The family wants to thank his devoted caretakers, Karla and Carlis, as well as the Compassus hospice team.

The family requests that those who wish to express sympathy consider making a donation to Habitat for Humanity (Online Donation - Habitat for Humanity International) or Future Farmers of America (FFA) in Troy Bentlage’s memory

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com