Joseph R. Bartolotta, (70), of Waukesha passed away peacefully with his loving family at his side. Joe was born January 16, 1952 in Milwaukee, WI to Sam and Dorothy (Drzewiecki) Bartolotta. Joe married the love of his Linda Esser on June 2, 1973 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Genesee Depot.

Joe has always been proud of his Italian heritage, Army service to our country and proud of the three sons he raised to be good men. Joe was loyal and loving in his priority to family. He found delight in his grandchildren and in the thoughts of his pending great grandchild. His daughters-in-law were daughters to him. He always was known by family and his many friends for his over-the-top generosity and sense of humor. One of his favorite things in life was to plan a meal, buy the groceries and cook it for family and friends. Another favorite was Joe’s love of sports. He played softball (Waukesha City Softball League), semi pro hardball (Land O Lakes Baseball League), bowled, fished, hunted all with family and friends who became like family to him as he enjoyed these experiences. Joe was recognized for his leadership and honesty in business. As president (14 years) and lobbyist for the National Fireworks Association, he influenced legislation impacting the entire fireworks industry. Joe was internationally known for his choreography of music selection to fireworks visual display. He choreographed pyro special effects for many recording artists and clients such as Disneyland, Sea World, the Super Bowl and five California Indian Nations who revered him. Joe was also known for his collections: wallets, hats, expensive writing instruments, flashlights, duffle bag of assorted knives, fishing gear, unused new tools, rings and 53 watches. However, he only had ONE wife. He was a well-known and well-loved man.

Survivors include his loving wife of 49 years, Linda; his children, Anthony (Lori), Dominic (Robie) and Mark (Heather); his grandchildren, Bailee (Jonathon) McClary, Courtney, Antonia, Joey, Giuliana, Charlie and Conner Bartolotta. Further survivors include his siblings, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral service for Joe will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at 2:00PM at Thelen Funeral Services (W309S4840 Commercial Drive, North Prairie/Genesee—NW corner of Hwy’s 83 and 59) with military honors to follow. A time to gather, share stories and memories of Joe will be held from 11:00AM until the time of services.

In lieu of other forms of sympathy, the family asks that donations be directed to them for distribution to Joe’s favorite charities at a later date.

For those unable to attend, those wishing to share a memory or those wanting to just sign the on-line guest registry, please click the Share A Memory link below Joe's photo. Thelen Funeral Services of North Prairie/Genesee is honored to be assisting the family. 262-392-4251