David Bartman

David J. Bartman, “Bart”, age 64 of Merrillville, passed away Friday, January 8, 2010. Preceding him in death were parents: Frank and Gladys Bartman and brother-in-law Terry Tchoukaleff and nephew Kevin Bartman.. He is survived by loving wife, Maryann, brother Ronald (Joanne) Bartman, sister Audrey Tchoukaleff, mother-in-law Mary Bodnar and brother-in-law John G. Bodnar, nephew Matthew (Juli) Tchoukaleff, niece Teri Jean (Tony) Smith, niece Sandra (Rob) Holcomb, nephew Ryan Bartman, 4 great nephews and 3 great nieces, aunt and cousins. He was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Parish and formerly a long time member of Blessed Sacrament Parish where he willingly volunteered for any project that needed help. He was generous with his time and talents and totally dedicated to his family and especially his wife, Maryann. He served in the Air Force during the Vietnam Conflict. Dave was employed by the Post-Tribune for 41 years, beginning his career as an engraver, then joining the photography staff where he enjoyed being out in the community and talking to his subjects. Because of his easy manner and friendly ways, he often returned to the newsroom with more information than the reporters assigned to the same story. His photos reflected not only his photography talents but his ability to relate to all kinds of people in any situation. He was a mentor to generations of young photographers and a faithful member of the Gary Newspaper Guild, rarely missing a meeting and always looking out for his union sisters and brothers. He was a regular at Pete’s Bar in Lake Station where everyone he met was a friend. Dave was a devoted White Sox fan, even during their worst seasons. He enjoyed all sports and was a gifted softball player on the paper’s “Deadliners” team for many years . Whether he was facing an early deadline or the fight of his life, Dave never complained. He remained a calming, loving influence to family and friends alike. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, 10:00 a.m. at Sts: Peter and Paul Parish, 5885 Harrison St., Merrillville. Dave will lie in state at the church from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (time of services). Interment at Calumet Park Cemetery will follow services. Friends and relatives may visit with the family at the Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, on Tuesday, January 12, 2010 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m.

David Bartman

December 6, 1945 - January 8, 2010