Gerald “Jerry” W. Bartnik

Entered God’s loving arms on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at age 82. Preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Evelyn Bartnik, and his brothers Roger and Brett Bartnik as well as his brother and sisters-in-law, Gil (Doreen) Dietz and Ron (Marcia) Dragan. Beloved husband of the late Kathleen “Kathy” (nee Dragan) of 53 years. Loving father of Scott (Nicole) Bartnik, Cindy (Rob) Strzelczyk, Pam (Allen) Washburn and Stacy (Dan) Menees. Devoted grandpa of Tyler, Braeden, Breely, Brett, Jackson, Brock, Connor, Stella, Avery, and Emma. Favorite uncle of Denise, Cherie, Debbie, Laurie, Jeff, Danny, David, Kris and Kirk. Brother-in-law of Mavis Bartnik. We are grateful for Dad’s special companion, Betty. He will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

Jerry was born in Milwaukee and graduated from Pulaski High School where he was an All-Conference (City) Champion in swimming. He entered the trades and was a proud union steamfitter, spending most of his career at Delco Electronics in Oak Creek.

In his later teens, he met the love of his life, Kathy, and they married in Milwaukee. They spent the next 53 years raising and sharing their love with their four children, ten grandchildren, family, and friends through holidays, sporting activities, vacations, and together time. Their love was always on display and was one that brought joy and happiness to the lives they touched.

Jerry had a passion for the outdoors and providing opportunities for people to experience God’s great outdoors. Hundreds of people experienced one of God’s most beautiful places on earth with Jerry’s fishing camp in Ontario, Canada. The laughs, camaraderie, and fellowship shared in this camp even exceeded the incredible fishing this place had to offer, all made possible by “The Legend” himself. He also took a gamble at the prodding of his son and purchased a piece of land in the Wisconsin Dells area with his son in 1993. That was the start of the great BartHart hunt club, which led to many other close friends purchasing land in the same vicinity. Great stories and countless family memories have resulted from them over the last 30 years. 

Jerry’s family is grateful for the extended time that they had with their Dad, Grandpa, Uncle, and Cousin.  He lived every moment on earth to the fullest, even with the various health challenges he faced. They are grateful to all the family members, dear friends, neighbors, and strangers for all the prayers in support of Jerry.  Additionally, his family would like to thank the dedicated physicians and many healthcare workers at the Froedtert Hospital locations who provided his care.

Jerry … Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Brother-in-Law, Father-in-Law, Uncle, and Friend, thank you for your strength, humor, and most importantly, love. You will always be with us! 

Friends may greet the family at the Funeral Home, Friday, October 13, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM with a time of sharing to conclude.

Memorial Gathering Saturday, October 14, at Holy Apostles Catholic Church, 16000 West National Avenue, New Berlin, WI at 9:30 AM until time of Mass at 11:00 AM. The mass will also be live-streamed for those who cannot attend in person.