Thomas J. Bartek

Thomas Bartek Obituary Funeral Mass: Friday, May 17 at 10 am. Vigil Service: Thursday, May 16 at 6:30 pm. All services are to be held at St Johns Catholic Church, 2500 California Plaza on Creighton Campus. Luncheon will follow Mass, at Sons of Italy Hall, 1238 S 10th Street.
Tom was proceeded in death by his wife Gloria, survived by sons, Aaron (Tracy) Bartek, Ethan Bartek, Jesse (Bambi) Bartek, and Ben (Samantha) Bartek, 16 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-granddaughter, brothers John "Jack" Bartek and Methodius "Matt" Bartek, sister, Phyllis Montello and many nieces and nephews. Tom chose his body to be Anatomically donated to science for study at Creighton University.
Tom Bartek was the oldest son of Methodius "Matt" and Phyllis Bartek. He was an Air Force Veteran, having served during the Korean War. Tom married his high school sweetheart, Gloria McIlvenna, celebrating over 50 years together.
Tom was an artist! He created acrylic paintings, assemblages, sculptures, and over 115 editions of serigraphs. He meticulously incorporated drawing, painting, and multiple exposure photography into his art. He exhibited widely throughout the country and culminated in a 3-venue retrospective in 2012.
Tom was deeply influenced by Thoreau and his boyhood summers on the Saunders County farm, using nature as an inspiration. Being a very involved hands-on father, he took his boys for walks, hikes, camping, and exploring. His sons all truly enjoy being outdoors and experiencing natures beauty and have passed this on to their children and grandchildren. He was an animal lover. He always had a dog as his trusted companion, often featuring them in his art.
Tom was a kind and generous man of faith. He lived a blessed and fruitful life full of many great friendships and a loving family. He was intelligent and had an eclectic sense of humor. He and Gloria were very non-traditional, they fought for Civil Rights, Feminism, and Racial Equality, influencing their family for many generations to follow. His sons rallied around him in his final years, Ethan made many sacrifices, and he moved in with him, providing comfort, love, and dignity until his final breath. Tom was deeply loved and will be forever missed. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our Tree Store.