Darren's obituary
Darren Michael “Bart” Bartolomeo, 59, passed away on April 21, 2025, in Grove City, Pennsylvania. Born on December 1, 1965, in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, Darren lived a life marked by service, dedication, and deep love for his family and the outdoors.
A proud graduate of Lincoln High School in Ellwood City, Darren went on to earn a Master of Science in Systems and Network Engineering from the University of Maryland in College Park. His professional journey reflected his commitment to excellence and innovation. He first became a small business owner, opening a barbershop, Terrific Cuts, in California. He began his IT career as a Network Operations Project Manager for AT&T before transitioning to a role as a Telecommunications Specialist with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). At OPM, Darren’s outstanding contributions were recognized with both the Sustained Superior Performance Award and the Director's Award for Excellence—testaments to his skill and unwavering work ethic.
Before embarking on his civilian career, Darren served honorably in the United States Army. He attended the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center to become an Interrogator/Linguist. He also served as a Quartermaster and Chemical Equipment Repairer. During his more than six years of military service, he was stationed in Germany for two years during the First Gulf War and achieved the rank of Specialist. His time in uniform exemplified his sense of duty and patriotism.
Darren was known by those around him for his kindness, determination, sharp sense of humor, and above all else, his love for his family. It was well known that he was an avid, lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. He also loved classic rock, frequently posting his favorite performances on social media. In 2021, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing his ideal home—a peaceful retreat where he spent his final years with his beloved wife Rachel and their dogs.
He found joy in nature and was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and gardening. These passions brought him peace and allowed him to connect deeply with the world around him.
Darren is survived by his loving wife Rachel; his children from his previous marriage to Maliheh, Randy, Rodney, Ramin, and Rahle (Rahel); and his siblings Eric, Victor, Maureen, Cheryl, and Kathleen. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard.
Darren will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, where ceremonies will be held to honor his miliary service.
May Darren’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and stand as a lasting tribute to a life well lived—one defined by courage, compassion, laughter, and love. His warmth and kindness touched countless lives, leaving the world forever better for having known him. The light he brought into our lives will continue to shine in our hearts and memories.
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Darren and I found each other in 2017, introduced by a mutual friend while I was living in Florida. From the very begin…
Darren and I found each other in 2017, introduced by a mutual friend while I was living in Florida.…
Darren and I found each other in 2017, introduced by a mutual fr…