1943 - 2025
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl (Homen) Bartek; his cherished daughter, Heather Jeanne Bartek, and her husband, Richard Onofrio; and his adored granddaughter, Josefine Jeanne Onofrio. Josef is also survived by his brother, Fredric Bartek, and his wife, Nora, and was predeceased by his brother Peter Bartek and sister-in-law Patricia. Affectionately known as “Unkie Joe,” he will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
Josef, lovingly called “Papa Joe,” was a joyful, fun-loving soul whose mischievous humor and generous heart brought light to everyone around him. A gifted storyteller, he had a knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories through laughter, warmth, and wit.
He was a graduate of Bishop Stang High School and the University of Bridgeport, where he proudly played running back on a football scholarship. His lifelong love of sports continued as a devoted fan of the New England Patriots, Boston College, and Syracuse University football teams.
Josef’s professional life reflected his charisma and care for others. He enjoyed a long and successful career, culminating as Vice President of Membership Sales at BJ’s Wholesale Club before his retirement. In his later years, he embraced life’s simple joys — traveling with family to tropical all-inclusive resorts, spending summers on Cape Cod playing with his granddaughter “JJ,” and relaxing under the sun at his beloved Horseneck Beach.
An intimate celebration of Josef’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that contributions be made in his memory to a local food bank or YMCA, organizations that reflect Joe’s generous and community-minded spirit.
Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).
