Jacqueline Bartels

It is with profound sadness that we report the passing of Jacqueline Marcy Bartels, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Born in Toledo, Ohio on November 3, 1941 to Jim and Charlotte (Matthews) Starner, she lived her life with grace, creativity, and generosity, passing away peacefully on February 13, 2023 next to her husband, who never left her side.

Having studied both gymnastics and ballet in her youth, Jackie was a dancer with The Toledo Junior Ballet, and became an accomplished modern dancer and gymnast. At Libbey High School, class of 1959, she was a member of the Libbey Rhythmettes. Jackie remained active in competitive gymnastics and was involved in dance throughout college. At Miami University she developed a love for education and learning and then spent over 30 years teaching in Toledo Public Schools. Known for her kindness, patience, and ability to inspire her young students, she was an early advocate for children with learning disabilities.

Jacqueline met her one true love, Albert Bartels, in 1963, and neither of them ever looked back. Jackie and Al did most things together, eventually welcoming three children, and Jackie embraced motherhood with wholehearted enthusiasm. Her children will fondly remember the summer camping trips as they toured the United States together. Since traveling was a passion Jackie shared with Al, they traveled the United States together and made several trips to Europe. A voyage to Australia and New Zealand highlighted their 50th wedding anniversary. The void that Jackie’s passing creates will be forever filled by many cherished memories.

In her free time, Jackie indulged in her passions. Baking: Her pies, cookies and especially her rolls were a highlight of many gatherings; Sewing: A self-taught seamstress, Jackie made many clothes for herself and her children; Reading: Mystery novels provided her chosen escape; Cats: She always loved having felines nearby and was even attached to a couple of loyal Labs.

Jackie lived a life full of purpose and was loved by many for her warm personality and unassuming character. Her infectious smile and unexpected, feisty wit, which caught one by surprise and cracked everyone up, will be greatly missed. An active person, she looked forward to having lunch with her friends, participating in community events and voicing her opinions with her vote. Jackie was active in P.E.O., the Ohio Retired Teachers Association, and AAUW. Coming from a musical family, she sang in the choir at Park Congregational Church as well as the First Unitarian Church, and could often be heard humming a tune to herself.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years Albert Bartels, their three children Robert Bartels, Adrienne Gathy (Gregory), Ainslee Jones (Joshua) and her nine grandchildren: Zachary, Ansel, and Isobel Bartels; Aiden and Everett Gathy; and Brady, Drew, Ellie, and Anniston Jones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Charlotte; brothers, Jim and Fred Starner.

The family would like to thank ProMedica Hospice Nurses and staff for providing support these last several weeks. A very special thank you to Lysa DuMont for her much needed care and comfort to us all at the end.

Arrangements are being handled by the Walker Funeral Home on Sylvania Ave, where friends will be welcomed on Thursday, February 23rd from 4 to 7 PM. The funeral will be held at Walker Funeral Home at 1:00 PM on Friday, February 24th. Expressions of sympathy would be gratefully welcomed at Walkerfuneralhomes.com and could include words of comfort and remembrance. One of Jackie’s favorite charities was raising money with her P.E.O. sisters for women in need who wished to attend the all women’s college, Cottey College, in Nevada, Missouri. Those wishing to make a contribution in memory of Jackie may do so, knowing that education for women was near and dear to her heart. For information on making a contribution please contact Walker Funeral Home, 419.841.2422.