Donald "Donnie" Robert Bartz

Donald Robert Bartz was born November 18, 1937, at home in Shible Township, Swift County, Minnesota, the son of Paul Carl and Alma Olga (Gaulke) Bartz.  Donnie was baptized, at home, by Rev. Gierke.  He was confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Shible Township on April 1, 1951 by Rev. Walters.  Donnie was raised in the Appleton area, graduating from Appleton High School in 1955.  He served in the Minnesota Army- National Guard in Appleton during the mid-to-late 1950’s.

After high school, Donnie moved to the Twin Cities where he worked until the early 1960’s.  He then returned home to Appleton where he worked as a mechanic at Appleton Oil for more than 40 years until his retirement in 2001.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and watching TV (especially Westerns and Polka!).    Donnie loved to spend time with his nieces, nephew, and his dogs, Jersey and Pepper.  He was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Shible Township, where he served over the years as an Elder, Choir member, and Council member.

Donnie passed away Wednesday, March 7, 2018 in Appleton Area Health Services -Care Center.  He attained 80 years, 3 months, and 19 days of age.  Donnie is survived by his sister, Sharon (Gene) Anderson of Appleton; nieces: Jodi Anderson of Elk River and Karla (Michael) Baumgartner of Holloway; nephew, Charlie (Emily) Anderson of St. Michael; great-nieces: Finley Anderson and Kalleigh Baumgartner; great-nephew, Vernon Baumgartner; aunts: Renetta Lindstrom of Appleton and Arlene Ulstad of Madison; cousins, other relatives and friends; and his beloved dog, Pepper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Alma Bartz.

Blessed be the memory of Donald Robert Bartz.