Bill Jartz is a respected American television journalist who built a remarkable reputation through decades of dedicated reporting and news anchoring in Wisconsin. Best known for his long tenure at WBAY-TV, he became a familiar and trusted face for viewers across Northeast Wisconsin. Throughout his career, he covered major local stories, community events, and sports-related news while maintaining high standards of journalism. Beyond broadcasting, he gained recognition for his charitable work and public involvement. His contributions to local media have earned him numerous honors and widespread respect. This article explores his life, journalism career, news anchor journey, family background, broadcasting achievements, and net worth.
Early Life and Education
Bill Jartz was raised in Clintonville, Wisconsin, where he developed an early interest in sports, communication, and community involvement. His passion for athletics earned him a football scholarship to Northwestern University.
He graduated from Northwestern University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism. His education and athletic experiences helped shape the communication skills and work ethic that later defined his broadcasting career.
Building a Career in Broadcasting
After completing college, Bill began his television career at WSAW-TV in Wausau, Wisconsin, where he worked as a sports anchor. The position provided valuable experience and allowed him to combine journalism with his interest in sports.
In 1983, he joined WBAY-TV in Green Bay as a sports reporter. Over the following years, he became one of the station’s most respected sports personalities and eventually served as Sports Director.
A major milestone came in 1998 when he transitioned from sports reporting to news anchoring. This move expanded his role and introduced him to a broader audience across Northeast Wisconsin. His partnership with longtime colleagues helped establish WBAY’s evening newscasts among the most trusted local news programs in the region.
Becoming the Voice of Lambeau Field
In addition to his television work, Bill Jartz earned recognition as the public-address announcer at Lambeau Field.
Beginning in 2005, he became the official voice heard by thousands of Green Bay Packers fans during home games. The role further strengthened his connection with Wisconsin sports culture and introduced his voice to generations of football fans.
His work at Lambeau Field became one of the most recognizable aspects of his public career outside journalism.
Service Beyond the Newsroom
One of the defining features of Bill Jartz’s career has been his commitment to community service.
Over the years, he has supported numerous nonprofit organizations, charitable events, educational programs, and fundraising initiatives throughout Wisconsin. His willingness to donate time and expertise made him a familiar presence at community gatherings and civic events.
Many local organizations benefited from his participation as a host, speaker, or master of ceremonies.
Recognition and Awards
Bill’s dedication to journalism and public service earned him numerous honors throughout his career.
Among his notable recognitions are:
- Wisconsin High School Baseball Coaches Association Media Award (1989)
- WIXX Media Personality Award
- Heart of Gold Lifetime Achievement Award
- Wisconsin Governor’s Service Award
- Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Local Broadcast Legend Recognition (2024)
These honors reflect both his broadcasting excellence and his long-standing service to local communities.
Retirement After More Than Four Decades
In 2025, Bill Jartz announced his retirement from WBAY-TV, bringing to a close one of the longest careers in Wisconsin television journalism.
His retirement marked the end of an era for many viewers who had watched him deliver sports and news coverage for decades. Colleagues, community leaders, and viewers recognized his impact on local broadcasting and his contributions to Northeast Wisconsin.
Although retired from daily television news, his influence on regional journalism continues through the legacy he built over more than forty years.
Personal Life
Bill Jartz has been married to his wife, Mary, since 1984.
Throughout his public career, he has generally kept family matters private while focusing public attention on his professional work and community involvement. Outside broadcasting, he enjoys outdoor activities including hunting and fishing and has remained active in community events.
Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bill Jartz |
| Profession | Television Journalist and News Anchor |
| Known For | WBAY-TV Anchor and Voice of Lambeau Field |
| Hometown | Clintonville, Wisconsin |
| Education | Northwestern University |
| Degree | Bachelor of Science in Journalism |
| Joined WBAY-TV | 1983 |
| Became News Anchor | 1998 |
| Lambeau Field Role | Public-Address Announcer |
| Married | Yes |
| Spouse | Mary Jartz |
| Retirement | 2025 |
| Nationality | American |
Final Thoughts
Few local broadcasters achieve the level of trust and recognition that Bill Jartz earned throughout his career. From his beginnings as a sports reporter to becoming one of Wisconsin’s most respected television journalists, he consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and dedication to public service. His work at WBAY-TV, his role as the voice of Lambeau Field, and his commitment to charitable causes helped create a lasting connection with viewers across Northeast Wisconsin. Even after retiring from television, his contributions to journalism and community engagement remain an important part of his legacy, ensuring that his impact will be remembered for years to come.
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FAQs
What happened to Bill Jartz?
Bill Jartz retired from WBAY-TV in May 2025 after more than 42 years with the station, ending one of the longest careers in Wisconsin television journalism.
Why did Bill Jartz change his name?
Bill Jartz was born Bill Schmidt and later adopted his stepfather’s surname, Jartz. This name change has been mentioned in local accounts of his life and career.
What was Bill Jartz known for?
He was best known as a longtime WBAY-TV news anchor, former sports director, and the public-address announcer for the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.
Does Bill Jartz have children?
Public sources confirm that Bill Jartz is married, but detailed information about his children has not been publicly disclosed. Therefore, the number and identities of his children are not officially confirmed.
Who replaced Bill Jartz?
As of the latest available reports, WBAY announced Bill Jartz’s retirement, but the station had not publicly identified a permanent replacement for his anchor position.
