William Joseph Bartolomei, Jr

William Joseph Bartolomei, Jr., (Bart), born on June 4, 1935, left this world peacefully on March 31, 2026, at Harrington Hospital in Southbridge, MA. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, William's life was filled with dedication, warmth, and joy that touched all who knew him.

William served in the United States Army. Following his return, he operated and managed the Auburn Package Store for many years and was well known in the community. He ultimately found his true calling as a sales representative for Penn State Textile. With an infectious enthusiasm for his work, William transformed his Northeast territory into a beacon of success. His prowess in sales was a source of immense pride, reflecting his relentless dedication and his genuine love for the people he served. Beyond his work, William was a man of faith, always attentive to giving back to his church and community.

As a family man, William was extraordinary. His profound love for his wife of 43 years, Joyce Bartolomei, illuminated their shared journey through life. Together, they built a loving home where daughter Rachel and son Ryan were raised. He also had two daughters from a prior marriage, Angela and Mary, who remained a big part of his life. He never missed an opportunity to remind his children and grandchildren how proud he was of them—a testament to his unwavering support and boundless affection.

William’s storytelling was as rich as the life he lived. He delighted in recounting moments from the past—the day World War II ended, tales from a time before modern technology—captivating listeners with his vivid memories. He enjoyed politics, reading about the various sciences, and current events. Those moments of sharing were often accompanied by the comforting sizzle of pancakes on the griddle, for William was the undisputed master of pancake making. His recipe remains a family treasure, unmatched in taste and heartfelt tradition.

His personality sparkled with humor and warmth; a man who had a gift for making anyone, stranger or friend, feel instantly at ease. It was at his beloved Dunkin Donuts where William made countless friendships, engaging with a welcoming smile and genuine interest. This kindness, coupled with a personable, outgoing nature, made him a cherished presence in many lives.

William’s younger days were filled with activity and adventure. He enjoyed bowling, golf, working out, beach days, camping, playing the piano, and cruises. He drove across the country twice, taking in the beauty of the west coast and many National Parks with his wife and children. Later in life, he enjoyed long walks in nature. He spent many sun-drenched summers at Misquamicut Beach in Rhode Island, where he would swim in the ocean well into October. Over the course of his life, he built two houses in Sturbridge, one in Westerly, RI, and a unique log home in Auburn, which was his favorite. Cruises with Joyce to Bermuda and beachfront afternoons painted a life rich in simple pleasures and deep contentment.

William’s family legacy is supported and carried forward by his surviving relatives: his ever-loving wife Joyce; his daughters Angela Becker, Mary Rubin, Rachel Bartolomei and his son Ryan Bartolomei; grandchildren Keira, Natalie, Chase, Heather, Lila, and Cole; his sister Claire McDaniel and brothers Ed and Brian Bartolomei. He was preceded in death by his parents Clara and William Bartolomei Sr., and sisters Jeanne Pepin, Rose Laney, and Theresa Mitchell.

William Joseph Bartolomei, Jr. was a man who gave his whole heart to family, faith, and friendship. He taught those around him the value of presence, pride, and joy in everyday moments. As we remember him, we hold close his stories, his laughter, and his steadfast love—an everlasting light that will continue to warm the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a future date to honor William's life and legacy.