James Lynn Bartz (“Jim”) passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of family, service, scholarship, and an enduring curiosity about the past.

Born in Texas on January 27, 1937, Jim grew up in El Paso alongside his brother, Albert. The two spent part of their childhood at St. Mary’s boarding school in Silver City, New Mexico, while their father’s work on the railroad often took him away from home. During those years, their grandmother, lovingly known as “Mimi,” was a special presence in their lives and happily spoiled the boys whenever she had the chance.

Growing up without their mother and sharing those early experiences forged an exceptionally close bond between Jim and Bert. Their childhood experiences created a bond that endured throughout their lives, rooted in brotherhood, friendship, and a lifetime of shared memories.

Jim attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned his first degree in pre-law. He later entered the United States Air Force and proudly served with the Strategic Air Command as an Electronic Warfare Officer aboard B-52 bombers.

After completing his military service, Jim continued his education at UCLA, earning a second degree in electrical engineering. More importantly, UCLA was where he met Elizabeth Strohl, or “Betsy.” They fell in love, married, and shared more than 60 years together, building a life centered on family.

Jim also earned his pilot license and enjoyed flying to Catalina Island and other destinations throughout California. When he and Betsy began raising their children, flying took a back seat to family life, but his passion for airplanes and aviation never left him. He remained fascinated by aircraft and aviation history throughout his life.

Curious and scholarly by nature, Jim developed a deep fascination with the history of the American West, particularly railroads and Wells Fargo. His love of railroad history was deeply rooted in his own family history—both his father and grandfathers were railroad engineers. The railroad was part of the story of the generations that came before him, and Jim carried that connection forward through his collecting and historical research. What began as a family connection grew into a lifelong pursuit of researching, documenting, collecting, and preserving the artifacts and stories of that era.

His research led him to become a published author. His works include Company Property of Wells, Fargo and Co.’s Express, 1852–1918, published in multiple editions; Messenger Twelve, published in 2000; and Wells, Fargo & Company’s Express: Looking Back in Time, co-authored with Thomas B. Martin and published in 2014. Through his books and extensive collection of railroad and Wells Fargo memorabilia, Jim helped preserve a piece of American history for future generations.

For all his accomplishments, however, the most important part of Jim’s life was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Jim is survived by Betsy, his beloved wife of more than 60 years; his brother, Albert Bartz, and sister-in-law, Diane; and his four children, whom he affectionately called the “Fabulous Four”—Greg, John, Amy, and Bobby. He also leaves behind his daughters-in-law, Cathy, Tina, and Sharin; his son-in-law, Chris Simmons; and his seven grandchildren, Austin King, Julianne, Ryan, Emily, Alex, Avery, and Lynley. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Jim lived a full and meaningful 89 years—a life marked by service to his country, devotion to his wife and family, and an unending desire to learn, collect, and preserve.

His books will remain on shelves; his collections will continue to tell their stories, and the history he worked so carefully to preserve will live on. But his greatest legacy is the family he built, the memories he created, and the stories about him that will be shared for generations.

He will be deeply missed and forever lovingly remembered.

In honor of his service to his country, Jim will be laid to rest on Friday, November 20, 2026, at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.

In memory of Jim, please consider donating to your favorite local charity.