1926 - 2021:  Edward F. Bartz of Rolesville, NC passed away on Friday, February 5, 2021, at the age of 94. After an unexpected diagnosis of liver cancer, Edward went under Transitions hospice care for two weeks and passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 10, 1926 to father Edward L. Bartz and mother Elsie Bartz. He was one of five siblings and chose to enlist in the Navy at age 17.  Ed was a Fireman 1^st Class, and served on the destroyer USS Charles Ware until his honorable discharge in 1946.

After WWII, Ed enrolled in the Utilities Engineering Institute, where he learned all about automobiles and completed his training in 1950.  He had a very long career at Sears Roebuck & Company for over 40 years. During his free time from work, Edward met Betty at a roller skating rink, and it was love at first sight. They were married on July 4, 1947, and remained together for 64 years, until Betty passed away.

Ed had a wonderful outlook on life. He was a devoted Lutheran, and he was always willing to help out a friend, neighbor, or even a stranger when needed. He even saved a woman’s life by pulling her out of a burning car. Ed was an active member of the VFW.  He loved fishing, playing bingo, and playing card games. Ed also won lots of bowling awards, and he loved the game of golf.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Elmer, his sisters Clara and Millie, and his wife, Betty. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth; his children Linda and Alice; his grandchildren Samantha, Miles, and Nathan; and his great grandchildren Sabrina and Alex.