Arthur “Art” Bartiromo passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026, on his 90th birthday, surrounded by his family.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.
Born and raised in Newark, Art lived a life defined by hard work, community service, family devotion, and an unwavering commitment to the people around him. He began his career as a butcher at Palumbo’s Grocery Store in Newark’s Ironbound section before continuing with A&P and later Grand Union, where he retired after many years of dedicated service.
While Art took pride in his work, his true passion was serving others. He became deeply involved in the community he loved and dedicated countless hours to making it a better place. Over the years, he served as a Kearny Town Councilman, Kearny Fire Commissioner, and Recreation Department. His commitment to public service extended throughout Hudson County, where he served as President of the March of Dimes and as Hudson County Commissioner of Elections.
Art was also a proud lifetime member of the Kearny Elks, an organization he held close to his heart because of its dedication to veterans and children. He believed strongly in giving back and was always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed.
An avid bowler, Art spent more than six decades competing in leagues throughout Hudson and Union Counties. One of his proudest accomplishments came on January 6, 2008, when, at the age of 72, he rolled a perfect 300 game. He enjoyed the friendships, competition, and camaraderie that bowling brought into his life.
Above all else, Art was devoted to his family. He was a constant presence at the games, events, and activities of his children and grandchildren. Whether standing on the sidelines or cheering from the stands, he was always there, proudly wearing a Kearny Kardinals shirt and supporting those he loved most. His family was his greatest source of pride and joy.
Art was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary (née Hackett), and his cherished daughter, Cynthia Drefko. He leaves behind his loving son, Gregory Bartiromo and his wife, Melanie; his devoted son-in-law, Bill Drefko; his sister, Mary LoBiondo; his brother, Warren Bartiromo; and his treasured grandsons, Greg and Joe, all of whom were the pride and joy of his life.
Those who knew him will remember Art for his kindness, his sense of community, his dedication to public service and community, and the countless friendships he built over the years. More than any title he held or accomplishment he achieved, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence made people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Kearny Elks in Art’s memory.