Guido M Bartholomew Jr

Guido M. Bartholomew Jr, affectionately known as "Papa Guido," peacefully passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on February 8th, 2024, at the age of 95.

Guido was born on March 20, 1928, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, to the late Anna (Branca) and Guido Bartholomei. He was preceded in death by his brothers Joseph (Dolly) and Anthony (Katherine) Bartholomew.

Guido's life was marked by warmth, generosity, and hard work. His family was the center of his world, bringing him immense joy. Guido met his beloved wife, Anna (Gatti), in Ascoli Piceno, Italy, where they were united in marriage on July 24, 1952. Their enduring union of 71 years was characterized by Guido's unwavering devotion to Anna's happiness. He is survived by her; their three daughters, Adriane (Frank) Johnson, Anna Marie (Mitchell) Arra, and Marissa (John) Czop; eight grandchildren, Olivia (Matthew) Frangiosa, Gina (Kyle) Mead, Anthony Arra, Carla (Kenneth) Sohl, Eric (Ryan) Johnson, Nicklaus Arra, Julianna Czop, and Talia Czop; and four great-grandchildren, Rocco, Annabella, Alexander, and Enzo.

Guido's profession was carpentry, a skill he honed and utilized throughout his lifetime. He dedicated over 30 years to the maintenance department as the Master Carpenter at General Electric. Guido's craftsmanship extended to building his own home, where he lived for 48 years. This residence served as a gathering place for Sunday dinners, holidays, and cherished family moments, including visits from extended family from around the world. Guido's legacy also includes the establishment of two businesses with his wife, most notably Papa Guido's Pizzeria in 1989, where he personally undertook most of the repairs and updates on the building.

Guido was deeply committed to his faith, attending Catholic Mass weekly, and proudly served in the U.S. Navy. In his youth, he delighted in traveling, particularly to Italy and deep-sea fishing. Guido took pride in his vegetable garden and passed down his gardening skills to his children and grandchildren. In his later years, he found joy in spending time at home with his family, visiting local farms, and watching "The Three Stooges" with his beloved cat, Mikki. Guido's kind heart, sense of humor, and infectious smile will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Guido M. Bartholomew leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family. His memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched.

His funeral mass will be held on Friday, February 16 at 11 AM in Saint Francis of Assisi Church Norristown. Viewing will be held from 10 to 11 AM at the church,  burial will be in St. Patrick's cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, mass cards may be given or donations made to Habitat for Humanity ReStore West Norriton in Guido's name.

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