Howard Lee Bartz, age 86, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026. He was born on July 17, 1940, to the late Dewey and Florence (Pahlow) Bartz, in Shawano. He was united in marriage to Donna Fietzer on September 16, 1961, in Symco. She preceeded him in death in 2021. Together, they ran their family farm in Belle Plaine all their lives. Howard started and was a member of the Rose Brook Sportsman Club. He loved hunting, fishing, softball, bowling, pool, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. He was an avid race fan and strong supporter of the Stock Car Races. Howard also enjoyed attending the children’s sporting events.

Howard is survived by his children, Barbara (Dean) Hansen, Gary (Jessica) Bartz, Patti (Tom) Krause, Susie (Jim) Bartz, and Craig (Tina) Bartz; nine grandchildren, Adam Hansen, Brittany (Brian) Murray, Nick (Amanda) Bartz, Arica (Ian) Dobbe, Mandy (Kevin) Pevonka, Wendy (Ben) Sprenger, Heidi (Alex) Olsen, Jordan Bartz, and Tyler (Amanda) Heling; and thirteen great-grandchildren. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Howard is preceded in death by his wife, Donna; parents; granddaughter, Faith; three brothers; and three sisters.

A funeral service for Howard will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 1:30 pm at St. James Lutheran Church in Shawano with Pastor Andrew Zobel officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from noon until the time of service. Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery.