This incedibly unassuming man was a positive influence on the lives of so many. His ability to mold insecure adolescents into a functioning orchestra, a fete akin to herding feral cats, was uncanny. A gracious and wise man. Godspeed, Dr. Bartman.

We are saddened to hear of the passing of Virgil. It was a joy to spend time with him every summer at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. He was such a kind, generous, and wise gentlemen. We so enjoyed getting to know him and hearing about his many-faceted life of teaching, piano tuning, and having a family. We will always remember his kindness.

Virgil was a great cousin. Growing up, I remember Virgil always encouraging me in pursuing musical interest. And even though I wasn't a musical genius, I am sure he broadened my appreciation of music. I have some wonderful memories of him.

Mr. Bartman was my band teacher during my years at Jenison High School. He was a kind and wonderful teacher. He was so talented with passion for music and led our band to winning state championships! Mr. Bartman was the greatest Band and Music teacher of all times. I have never forgotten him and never will. He was truly a blessing in my life. My thoughts and prayers for the Bartman Family! Debbie Wiles Darrah class of 1974!!

Dr. Bartman was my favorite teacher and I have many fond memories of those four years, so many years ago. It was his faith and love of music that inspired me to play, repair, and teach that same love. I saw him last year in Jamestown last summer and we had a wonderful conversation. What a memory! He remembered all his students! I hope and pray to have the same positive impact as he shared. God bless.

A good friend known to us as both piano technician and director at Jenison. Was always a joy when paths crossed.

Dr. Bartman was a kind, gentle soul. He was my band director my first year of marching band at Jenison High School. I was sad when he left that position, but it was good to see his car around town with "Virgil Bartman, Piano Tuner, and I just saw it about a month ago!

A very favorite teacher. I can't believe that it was over 45 years ago. I always had so much respect for him and the way he empowered his students. My condolences to the family.

To the children and grandchildren of Virgil Bartman, I only knew him as MR. Bartman. He was a teacher at Lakewood when I was a senior there in 1965-66. He was always respected. He attended our 50th reunion in October of 2016 and it was so good to see him. Many of his former students got to visit with him. I am sincerely sorry for your loss. He was one of the good guys.

We began our long and blessed friendship with Marcia and Virgil in Oct of 1960 when Virgil began his teaching career at Lakewood and we have remained best friends. We were so saddened by Marcia's death in 2013 and now with the passing of Virgil, we are left with treasured memories. We extend our sympathy and love to his children and grandchildren.

What a Christian gentleman! I was fortunate to join in exercising with Virgil in the cardiac re-hab program at Holland Hospital for several years. He always was interested in the other person, loved to talk about his German choir and his piano tuning at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. He never complained about anything and gave us a positive vibe each day. My last conversation with Virgil was about the wedding in his barn and he was certainly proud of that. A wonder friend.

An All White Vase Arrangement was ordered on December 5, 2017

Our baby grand will miss Virgil as much as our family will.

Awww - this makes me so sad. You all have my deepest sympathy. Mr. Bartman was my band teacher at Jenison 40 years ago. I loved him. He was so great with us. Always went the extra mile for anyone that needed it. I seen him about 7-10 years ago and he still remembered who I was. Amazing~ Much love Mr. B and many hugs to the family.

I was so saddened to hear of Virgil's passing. I have so many fond memories of him. As a young person (age 19) I began working with Virgil as an assistant manager at Mr. Fables. To this day, I have thought of him as my favorite boss. He had such a tenderness and kind gentle spirit about him. He empowered rather than ruled. One Virgil quote I have used many times over is "There's a place for everything and everything in it's place." The world was a better place with you in it Virgil. You will be greatly missed. But, if I may change your quote I would say, "There is a place for Virgil, and Virgil is in that place". I will see you again sir.

Virgil will be deeply missed by all of us in the Piano Technician's Guild. Our many condolences to the family.

OBITUARY

Virgil Wayne Bartman, PhD

23 November, 1937 – 3 December, 2017

Cook Funeral and Cremation Services

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