Our Origins—100 Years of Filtration Experience
The passion for filtration began with Ivan Bartik
In the late 1940s, Ivan began working for Bowser-Briggs Corporation, where he developed deep expertise in filtration systems and fuel handling technologies. It was here that his knowledge, precision, and respect for engineering excellence took root—principles that would guide his work for decades.
Ivan went on to spend 27 years with Bowser, Keene, Kaydon Corporation, working primarily in fuel filtration. Over the course of his career, he became known for his technical insight, problem-solving ability, and unwavering commitment to quality. Filtration was never just a job—it was a discipline, a responsibility, and a craft.
In 1961, Ian Bartik, Filter Mart Corporation’s Founder and Owner, was born to Ivan and Patricia Bartik. Ian later graduated from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, Tennessee, earning a degree in Biology. While his academic path differed from his father’s engineering background, it provided a strong understanding of systems, processes, and analytical thinking.
In 1975, Ivan left his long-standing corporate career to start his own aftermarket filtration business. Built on decades of experience and a reputation for integrity, the business quickly found success. After 14 years, Ivan retired, having proven that deep technical knowledge paired with hard work could stand on its own.
But Ivan’s filtration story didn’t stop there.
When Ivan launched his aftermarket filtration business, Ian worked alongside his father for 10 years, gaining a world of hands-on knowledge. Those years were spent learning not only the technical side of filtration, but also the importance of integrity, persistence, and customer trust. In 1992, Ian Bartik founded Filter Mart Corporation in Cookeville, Tennessee, with the guidance and support of his successful father, Ivan.
When asked what his goal was when Filter Mart first began, Ian often says:
“I wanted to be the best—just like my dad—and to provide knowledgeable customer service and sales to the filtration industry. I wanted Filter Mart to be the place you know to call when you’re looking for an aftermarket replacement, technical support, and service after the sale.”
Anyone who knows Ian or has worked alongside him will tell you that he has been successful in fulfilling that goal. Under his leadership, Filter Mart grew into one of the most reputable aftermarket filtration suppliers in the industry—trusted for both expertise and reliability.
In 2005, Ian expanded that legacy by founding Filter Fab Corporation, a manufacturing company specializing in fuel coalescers and separators, lube and hydraulic filter elements, air filters, and more. Built with the same grit and determination that defined Filter Mart, Filter Fab quickly established itself as a trusted name in filtration manufacturing.
That spirit of growth and innovation continued in 2024, when Ian was approached with the opportunity to acquire Jaxon Filtration. Never one to shy away from a new challenge, Ian made the purchase and now owns and operates the manufacturing plant in Franklin, Georgia, producing a wide range of industrial filtration elements and absorption products.
Today's FilterMart
The Bartik legacy spans generations, companies, and capabilities—but it's rooted in the same core values: knowledge, hard work, integrity, and service. Today, Ian continues to lead with the same passion for filtration excellence that his father instilled in him over 50 years ago.
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