Henry Francis Bartolo (Hank), 80, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away on February 24, 2025. He was born in August 1944, in Niagara Falls, New York, to Henry and Margaret Bartolo.
Hank was known for his kind heart, quick wit, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. He built a life centered on love, hard work, and community, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know him. Hank graduated from St joseph’s University with a bachelor’s degree and went on to earn a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University. He volunteered for the Army where he became a Green Beret and wanted to be sent to Vietnam, but instead the Army sent him to California where he met and married the love of his life, Linda. He was then sent to Okinawa, Japan, where their first son, Patrick, was born. He did a tour with the 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces. He met his second son, Christopher when he came back home.
He moved the family back East in a rebuilt Willie’s Ambulance Jeep. He changed jobs a few times in the early years. He was never too proud to take whatever small job that kept the family fed, housed and the boys in Catholic school. They later added two more boys, Ryan and Conor, and he settled into a career as a contractor. He owned his own business and took pride in his work. When Linda began a later career, his most prized and loved job started. He became a caretaker for his first granddaughter, Georgia. He spoiled her with hikes and muffins. She always did a little dance whenever she realized her “Popeye” was about to enter the room.
Besides his grandchildren being his most treasured hobby, Hank also loved sailing, scuba diving and sky diving. He became a scuba diving instructor and was later finally able to purchase a sailboat, The Linda Gayle, named after his wife.
He is predeceased by his parents Henry and Margaret Bartolo, and sister Kathy Bartolo. He is survived by his wife, Linda Bartolo, sons Patrick Bartolo (Nikki), Christopher Bartolo (Christine), Ryan and Conor, granddaughters Georgia and Fiona Bartolo, grandson Kai Bartolo, sister Laura Cothell (Ron), nephews Austin and Seth, and niece Tessa who will forever cherish his memory.
Hank will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love and joy he brought into the lives of so many.
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