David Arthur Bartz

David Arthur Bartz, 82, passed away on October 6, 2024. Born on May 23, 1942, David dedicated much of his life to serving his country and community. After graduating from Pewaukee High School, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served in Germany during the Cold War. His time in the military was marked by a commitment to excellence and duty, a theme that would continue throughout his life. Following his military service, David returned to Wisconsin, where he settled in Waukesha with his beloved wife of 62 years, Pam (Goodlad) Bartz. Together they raised two daughters, Lisa Neumann (Doug) and Tracey Ferguson (Roger). David continued to impact lives though his work, first by counseling high school students at Hamilton High School in Sussex, followed by running his own machine shop, and later as a safety inspector at Wisconsin Electric Power Company, retiring in 1994. David’s retirement years were as active as his working years, spending two decades traveling across the United States with Pam in their RV. They split their time between Richland Center and Alabama, enjoying the differing landscapes and communities each offered. He found joy in deer hunting weekends, riding his beloved Harley Davidsons, amateur photography, sharing laugher and camaraderie at the Elks Lodge and American Legion clubs, and morning coffees with friends. Dave leaves behind a legacy of love. He took pride and joy as the grandfather to Ashley Bregantini (Kevin), Neil Schalk (Maeghan), Lindsey Pfannerstill (Matthew), Natalee Dunkley (Troy), six step grandchildren, great-grandchildren Elizabeth, Benjamin, Tommy, David, and Madeline and 11 step great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Larry Bartz (Marge) and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be remembered as an open lap to climb up on, a source to get chocolates, and the teacher of life’s greatest lessons. His warm hugs and patience made him a cherished source of strength and comfort for our family. Our family requests your prayers as we navigate this difficult period. In lieu of a service at this time, we invite you to honor Dave by making a donation to G.R.A.C.E. (https://walkwithgrace.com/), an organization dedicated to fighting cancer in our local community. .

David Arthur Bartz

May 23, 1942 - October 6, 2024