Wesley Dean Bartz

Wesley was a dedicated railroad man whose career reflected a lifelong passion for trains and the people who worked alongside them. He attended Huntington Beach High School and went on to work as a conductor for the Santa Fe Railway, where he spent 38 years doing the work he truly loved. Wesley took great pride in his job and in the railroad community. He was especially known for helping train and mentor new employees, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with patience and kindness.

Outside of work, Wesley had a deep interest in electronics and radio technology. He enjoyed building and working on radios and spent many hours immersed in the technical hobby he loved.

Wesley was a quiet and thoughtful person who often kept to himself, but those who knew him understood how kind and genuine he was. He was always willing to lend a hand, easy to talk to, and took a sincere interest in helping others learn and succeed. His unique personality, gentle nature, and generosity will be remembered by all who knew him.

Wesley was preceded in death by his parents, Amos Bartz and Dolores Bartz.

He is survived by his brother, Daniel Bartz, as well as many friends and colleagues who were fortunate to know him throughout his life and career.

In honor of Wesley’s lifelong love of railroading, memorial donations may be made to the Santa Fe Railway Historical & Modeling Society or the California State Railroad Museum Foundation.