Daniel M. "Dan" Bartels

POTOSI - Daniel M. Bartels, 57, of Potosi, died Tuesday, September 22, 2026, unexpectedly at home. Dan was born on September 25, 1968, to Vernon and Julia (Dalen) Bartels. Dan attended Potosi and Platteville schools, along with Lancaster school, where he graduated from. While in school, he was a member of the Special Olympics team, where he made it to state bowling. Dan was born special. He brought a charm to each room he was in. Dan never met a stranger. If you were in his path, it was a guarantee you would be getting a high five and a hug that would leave you questioning if you had a few broken ribs or not. He loved big. If you were passing through Potosi, often times he could be found walking to the Tenosi Pump and Go or The Sportsman’s Shack gas stations for a snack and high fives. He would wave to every car and truck that would pass by, especially loving when the semis would give him the air horn. If you didn't spot him along the highway, he could usually be found sitting on Grandma’s porch listening to his radio. Dan was a mainstay at several of the local “establishments" with his Dad and Gramps. There are not too many gambling machines, dice boxes and pull-tab machines that Dan didn't know in the Potosi area. Dan was an avid Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers fan. He would whoop and holler at almost every play, whether they were winning or losing. He also enjoyed watching his nieces and nephews at their sporting events and rodeos. Dan didn't say much at all, but he had a way of letting you know just what he was thinking, good or bad.

Daniel is survived by his two brothers: Dennis and Scott (Mandy) both of Potosi; along with Rita Amore, his dad's longtime girlfriend and caregiver. He had five nieces and nephews: Julia and Bryce (Haley) Bartels, Robert, Jacob (Callie), and Laura Bartels. He is further survived by Rita's children: Tim (Missy) Amore and Tammy (Rick) Steiner and her grandchildren: Timmy (Jen), Tara, Tabby, Tadd, Chris (Amanda) and Brandon. He also has 16 great nieces and nephews.

Dan is proceeded is death by his parents, Julia (September 15, 1975) and Vernon (March 16, 2026); his Grandparents, Robert and Lauretta Bartels, whom helped raise him after his mother died; along with several other loved family members.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes and Crematory in Lancaster. Burial will take place at British Hollow Cemetery, Potosi. Family and friends may gather on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory of Lancaster is assisting the family.