James Nicoll Zartman

So very sorry to read this. I served with Jim on the VSA Board for many years and he was a valued advisor to me as President. He spent many volunteer hours serving the Board and re-writing the VSA By-Laws. He was a dedicated man and I always enjoyed Kathy and his company. RIP dear Jim and thank you for all you did for the Violin Society of America.

Jim and Kathy were two of the most dedicated, supportive and ethical people we have ever encountered. We are fortunate to have made their acquaintance and to have passed briefly through their delightful and influential orbit. May they rest in peace, even as their generosity and benevolence live on.

Cheryl and Fred Thompson

I was fortunate to have had Jim´s example early on through my friendship with his son, my best friend Peter. My wife, Vanessa and I are glad to have had the opportunity to see him on our visit to Chicago at Christmas last year. He was the hardest working man I knew. He remained true to himself and his principles have proven timeless.

We offer our sincerest condolences to the Zartman family.

Sincerely, Sam & Vanessa Johnson

It was a delight to serve with Jim on the board of CSVM. His passion for music and for the violin was so heartwarming. I'm grateful to have known him! --Rachel Barton Pine

Let's not forget how often he drove students and instructors to memoir writing events. A versatile and good man

I knew him as "Uncle Jim," throughout childhood. Living next door to the Zartmans meant being a part of their family, for which I am eternally grateful. So, so sad to lose this wonderful man. In my mind's eye, I see him with "Mrs. Z" now, together, as they should be. Hopefully they are hanging out with my folks too. I was fortunate to have a multitude of parents in childhood, and the Zartmans stand out in that pantheon. Deep love to Judy, Michael and Doug and your families. You are in our hearts!

With so very many memories over fifty years we look forward to sharing them with all of you! Walker and Carolyn, Lucia, Sam, and Ben

My thoughts are with you Michael, Judy, and Doug. Reading about Jim´s life brought a smile to my face. What a full, interesting, and generous life he lived! I enjoyed seeing the photos of Jim, Kathy, and all of you. Though I know you are feeling a great loss, I hope you also feel your dad is with you in spirit.

We lost a good man and hero in our friend Jim. May he rest in peace.

Not long ago I was talking to my dad about being unsure if I could address Mr. Zartman by Jim. Our families had been friends most of my life but still there was a certain reverence around Mr. Zartman. As we were having this conversation Jim Zartman walked into the cafe were we were having lunch. My dad stopped and said "Jim, Mary has a question for you." I asked and he said "Jim is fine." That was the one and only time I ever called him Jim. He continued and will always be Mr. Zartman. Peace be with you.

My prayers for Kathy and Jim. You are both inspirations for lives well lived.

It was truly a highlight of my life getting to know Jim. The conversations we had particularly at Michael and Armond´s wedding were so special. He was a complex man but that was part of the experience of getting to know him he was also blessed with a son who went above and beyond for his parents and whose caring self was on full display always.

I did not know James but i know his dear son Michael. It appears that Michael is very much like his father; kind, loving, loyal to his friends, family and work, smart, humble and always thinking of others. James, thank you for raising a beautiful person. May your love and memory fill your families heart so that they may continue life´s journey with you, always.