Obituary of Richard Bartolazzi

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Richard Bartolazzi, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Richard, who passed away on January 6, 2025, at the age of 85, was a man of strength, joy, and generosity. Born and raised in Kearny, New Jersey, Richard lived in Denville for 52 years, where he created a lifetime of memories and friendships that will never be forgotten.

Richard's passion for football was a defining part of his life. A force to be reckoned with on the field, he played for Colorado State and Penn State before continuing his athletic journey with the semi-pro Iron Dukes. Football was close to his heart and it was known that he would be found in front of a television if Penn State was playing football that day.

A loyal and dedicated employee of PSE&G, Richard worked there for 26 years, ending his career with joy and pride when he retired from the Cranford office in 1997. He had an unwavering commitment to excellence and made lifelong friendships with his colleagues. As a younger man, he was also proud to be a member of the Knights of Columbus. Richard was an avid bowler for over 40 years.  Traveling and competing in tournaments with some of his closest friends.  His passion for sports continued in retirement as he now had more time to focus on his golf game and worked part time at the county course.

Alongside his athletic pursuits, Richard was a man who treasured life’s simple pleasures.  Trips down to Cape May with his beloved wife, Barbara, were something he looked forward to throughout the years.  He also cherished his many adventures with the "Over 55 Friendship Club," where friendships flourished and laughter never ceased.

Richard’s love of food and storytelling were well-known to all. He could recount tales of years past with remarkable detail, always infusing each story with humor and passion. His zest for life was contagious, and he embraced every moment with a full heart.

A devoted family man, Richard was a loving husband to his wife of 54 years, Barbara J. Bartolazzi. Together, they built a beautiful family filled with love and laughter. Richard’s children, Serena (Adam) DiGuiseppi, Carie (John) McCormick, and John C. (Michelle) Bartolazzi, along with his grandchildren, Brett, Summer, and Johnny, and his great-grandson, Gavin, were the joy of his life. Richard was predeceased by his parents, John D. Bartolazzi (1991) and Dorothy C. Bartolazzi (Heffern) (1996), and his brother David A. Bartolazzi (Diana) of Homestead, FL (2022). His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

Richard's life was a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and adventure. He will be dearly missed, but the cherished memories he leaves behind will continue to inspire and bring comfort to all who knew him.

If you would like to contribute to Richard`s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to St. Judes Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

His family invites you to join them in honoring his memory, sharing stories, and remembering the incredible man he was for a public visitation from 12 – 3PM with a vigil and memory sharing service at 2:30PM on Sunday, January 12th, 2025, at Norman Dean Home for Services.

We invite all who were touched by Richard`s presence to join us as we honor the beautiful life he lived. Please join us to celebrate the life of this incredible man and use this time to share a memory, leave a condolence, or light a candle to continue to let Richard`s light shine!