James "Jim" Edward Bartz

James Edward Bartz, 72, of Benson, Minnesota, died on Friday morning, March 13, 2026, at CentraCare Hospital in Benson.

Born on October 28, 1953, in Starbuck, Minnesota, Jim was the son of Wilbert and Eleanor Clay Bartz. He grew up in the Starbuck area, where he was baptized and confirmed at East Zion Lutheran Church. After graduating from Starbuck High School, he attended Alexandria Technical School. Over the years he lived in Starbuck, Glenwood, Villard, and Benson. He worked as a welder at Tyler/Case in Benson for many years before retiring in 2013.

Jim found quiet joy in woodworking, cooking, and gardening. He loved fishing and camping at the lake and cherished the loyal companionship of his dogs. Above all, he treasured being surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his children, Richard Bartz of De Graff, Vanessa (Vance) Pryne of Benson, April Bartz of Alexandria, and Christopher Bartz of the Twin Cities; his grandchildren, Damian Bartz, Christian Bartz, McKenzie Strickler, Vance Pryne Jr., Noah Bartz, and Marissa Bartz; his siblings, Kathleen (Allan) Kuseske of Villard, Jack (Patty) Bartz of Glenwood, Pete (Kim) Bartz of Casper, Wyoming, Phillip (Yvonne) Bartz of North Dakota, and Karen Johnson of Litchfield; and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Eric Bartz, a grandson Baby Michael Pryne, and his sister Loretta Bartz.