Michael Ryan Bartz, of Clinton, longtime resident of Antigo died Friday, May 8 at his home after a long battle with cancer. He was 61 years old. He was born on October 16, 1953 in Antigo, a son of Dorothy (Cernoch) Bartz of Antigo and the late Forest Bartz. He married Sally Olson in 1972, the couple later divorced. He married Deborah Andraschko on February 14, 1995 at Peace Lutheran Church, Antigo.

He graduated from Antigo High School in 1972.
Mr. Bartz served in the United States Army from June 1, 1972 to August 1, 1980.

For 23 years he served his community on the City of Antigo Fire Department and achieved the rank of Lieutenant. He also served as an EMT and Hazmat Specialist. He later worked part-time for Gene Strasser Trucking hauling milk, Thomae Electric, and Doug Herman and Dave Packard Trucking hauling fuel for Draeger Oil. In 2010 he moved to Clinton.

He enjoy Muskie fishing, hunting and camping. His greatest joy was spending time with family and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and mother survivors include two sons, Michael Bartz Jr. of Tomah, Mark (Tabatha) Bartz of Wausau; daughter, Jenny (Tom) Patten of Madison; two step-daughters, Amanda (Brian) Rosnostik of Wausau, Tanya Hasse and special friend Jesse of Seymour; step-son, Rob (Angela) Hasse of Baraboo; 13 grandchildren; two sisters, Cheryl Krajewski of Green Bay and Pamela (Bryan) Zehrt of Solon, IA. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father; brother, Keith and brother-in-law, Larry Krajewski.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church with Rev. David Karolus officiating. Burial will take place in Elmwood Cemetery where Antigo veterans will conduct military honors. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home with the City of Antigo Fire Department and the PFFW State Honor Guard standing honor guard. Visitation also on Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.