Troy Bentlage

Troy Eldon Bentlage, 89, died peacefully in his home in Columbia, Missouri, surrounded by loved ones.

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 worked at Union Oil Company in Alaska and at California Electric in San Francisco. Ultimately, he returned to Columbia where he met his wife Joan, and raised three children. He started a successful business, Bentlage Brothers, building houses and raising cattle. Troy served in the Air Force Reserves and was called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis.

In later years, Troy traveled the world with Joan, visiting New Zealand, Australia, Tanzania, Thailand, South America, Canada, and Mexico.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Troy passed on a strong work ethic and always helped those in need.

He is survived by his wife Joan, children Ken, Dave (Sunny), and Margaret (Don), grandchildren David (Amanda), Troy (Amy), Brett, Blake, Caleb (Hayley), Blaine, Grace, Porter, seven great-grandchildren, brother Charles, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters, one brother, and granddaughter Whitney.

The family wishes to thank his caregivers and hospice team. Donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity or FFA in his memory.