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Madeline (Molly) Bartlett of North Port, Fla.
Born Madeline Barbara to Ben and Virgie Goryca in May of 1926 in Detroit, Mich., she left us on May 11, 2020, just shortly before her 94th birthday.
Mom grew up during the Great Depression when frugality was a necessity and people depended on each other for survival in extraordinary times. She worked as a young girl plucking chickens before the war. Although she disliked the job, the extra money was needed at home to make ends meet. In the early years of World War II she did her part to help fuel the US wartime economy working as a riveter in a factory in Detroit.
She married SSgt. Richard Barnum Bartlett on July 21, 1945, when he returned from the war. Together they raised a family that includes 8 children, 21 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and counting.
She made a home while rearing her family instilling values through her example of playing the hand she was dealt and enjoying what some might consider mundane. She never wanted to be a burden to others but often shared in others' burdens. She routinely took in strays (people, not pets) and welcomed them into her family until they could get on their feet. Her thrifty instincts and contentment with K-Mart rather than Macy's came in handy when stretching a dollar but her generosity offset the savings as she freely gave to others.
Later on she proved to be a savvy business woman as she and Dad owned and operated Bartlett's Party Store in Detroit. Some of her finest character traits were displayed on the day a man walked into the store and offered to sell them his lawn edger for $50 because he needed the money. Mom agreed but she negotiated the price down to $30. She paid him and he went to his car to get the edger. When he sped off with the money and the edger, Mom turned to Dad and said "Well, at least we saved $20".
After selling the store, she worked as an activities director at a nursing home before retiring to North Port with Dad in 1988.
In retirement at Harbor Cove in North Port, Fla., Mom was a frequent visitor to the pool and activities center. She enjoyed playing pinochle and was gracious no matter the outcome, although in victory she often flashed a smile that communicated compassion but at the same time, satisfaction in a game well played. She wears that smile now; no doubt in the presence her Lord.
She leaves behind 4 sons, 3 daughters and their spouses; Larry (Nancy), Bruce (Denise), Linda Hulin (Frank), Pamela Bissell (Randy), James (Judy), Richard (Rita) and Penny Oliva (Raymond); the aforementioned grandchildren & great-grandchildren; a brother, Bernard and sister Carol; extended family; hundreds of friends and former strays who called her Mom. She is reunited with her husband, her firstborn son David and granddaughter Stephanie.
Well played Mom! We will miss you!
Donations in Madeline's name can be made to American Heart Association here.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
How lucky we were! I mean all of us who new Mom. We had her for guidance for almost 94 years. You could talk to her about almost anything and come out feeling better. She was always caring and loving. I could go on for hours and hours with stories about Mom . I will pass those storys on to my children and grandchildren. My memories of her loving ways will never be forgotten.
Larry Bartlett
Son
May 15, 2020
Patricia Espeut
May 15, 2020
I grew up with the Bartlett family on Beaverland. There are just so many memories of Molly to share them all. She always welcomed us neighborhood kids. The Bartlett house was the hang out for a lot of yrs. but the one memory I would like to share is when Mrs. Bartlett (Molly) did volunteer work for a nursing home crafts. Someone brought in a really small size wedding dress to cut up and use for crafts. Bc I was so so small, and skinny at that time. She brought it home and asked me if I wanted it. I married my first husband in that dress in 1981. I think of Molly every time I look at old wedding picks. My heart goes out to the Bartlett Family.
Wendy Francis
Friend
May 14, 2020
I have precious memories of my Grandma. She was so kind, loving, caring & thoughtful. I remember picking grapefruit from her tree for breakfast, & eagerly running inside to show her. She'd be smiling & (when I was young) would patiently teach me how to dig out the fruit with the sharp spoon, guiding my hand the first few tries. I'll never forget her loving guesture of picking 2 beanie babies & putting them in the room we stayed in for me to take home. She never got duplicates of any animal, which amazed me! I would often go swimming with her (@ 5 am) in the community pool & while I took a few minutes to get used to the water, Grandma would just get in & do lap after lap- stopping after a few to check to see how I was adjusting. Those were special times- even if I wasn't fully awake. She left behind a wonderful, rich legacy for anyone who knew her to be inspired by. I love & miss you, Grandma!
Mary Bartlett)
Grandchild
May 14, 2020
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
American Association
May 14, 2020
I had the pleasure of meeting her a few years ago. I remember her as a very sweet & loving lady. My thoughts & prayers are with the family.
Maria Minasso
Family
May 14, 2020
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