Brian J. Artz

Brian J. Artz, age 62, passed away on September 11, 2026, while under hospice care.

Brian was born and raised in Perrysburg, Ohio, and graduated from Perrysburg High School in 1983. He was especially proud to have been a member of Perrysburg’s undefeated 1980 football team during his sophomore year.

In 1994, Brian graduated from the Northwest Ohio Paramedic Program and found his true calling. He dedicated more than 20 years to a career as a paramedic, working at Walker Ambulance, Brush Wellman Corp. in Elmore, and PMP Joint Ambulance District in McComb.

Brian’s instinct to help others extended beyond his time on the job. In 2015, while stopping at the Holland Carry Out, he discovered a man in cardiac arrest and immediately began CPR until the fire department arrived. The gentleman made a full recovery and later visited Brian personally to thank him for the quick actions that helped save his life.

Brian was an avid reader who loved music, history and trivia. He also enjoyed traveling and shared many memorable trips with Rosanna. A die-hard Ohio State football fan, he also cheered for the Mud Hens, Tigers, Walleye and Red Wings—and, above all, whichever hockey team his favorite player, his nephew Bennett, was playing for.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Toni Artz, and four of his beloved four-legged companions: Blondie, Comet, Sasha and Parker Sue (Monkey).

He is survived by his wife, Rosanna; sisters, Pam (Ron) Malzahn, Tina Artz, Cary Sheppard and Ginger (Scott) Conaway; stepsons, Jacob (Jen), Josh (Christine) and Jonathon (Carrie) Gorny; three nieces; three nephews; four granddaughters; two grandsons; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Brian was also fortunate to have a lifelong friend in Jeff (Sherry) Przysiecki. During Brian’s final two years, Jeff was always there—providing rides, visiting often, lending a hand whenever needed and supporting Rosanna throughout Brian’s final journey. His friendship, loyalty and care for Brian meant more than words can express.

Those wishing to honor Brian’s memory through a donation are encouraged to consider Toledo’s PET Bull Project or the Alzheimer’s Association.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the gazebo by the pond in the rear of Community Homecoming Park 7807 Angola Rd., Holland.