Arthur Darwin Bartlett

Arthur Darwin Bartlett, 89, closed his earthly eyelids and opened them, seeing Jesus his Savior face to face on November 27, 2024.  Art was a unique, loving, beloved father, husband, musician and friend.  

Art was born on December 11, 1934, in Grand Rapids, MI, a son of William and Louise Bartlett. His family then moved to Comstock Park, MI, where he spent a majority of his years. He graduated from Comstock Park High School in 1953. At the age of 17, he found a part-time “temporary job” at Light Metals Corp. in Wyoming, MI, where he remained for 44 years.

He married his elementary school sweetheart, Marcia (Laurel), who preceded him in death in 1989. They had two sons, Martin of Marne, Mi, and Mathew, who preceded him in death in 2011. Then on July 14, 1996, he married Joy Ann (Whaley, Doornbos).

More than anything, Art loved Jesus. He was a devoted husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his family. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement. His laid-back personality and humor endeared him to many.

In his free time, Art enjoyed music, singing and playing mainly guitar but other stringed instruments as well. He was always happy to share his many hundreds of memorized Gospel songs, ballads and humorous selections. He was an active member of several local churches over the years and was a current member of the Algoma Baptist Church of Rockford, MI.

Art and Joy led after-school Bible Clubs in several Comstock Park and Sparta area schools through Bible Club Ministries. He also enjoyed music jams, and performing with The Grateful Hearts. He sang in nursing homes, coffee shops, rehab ministries and churches in Michigan and in Bradenton, FL, where they have wintered for the past 12 years.

Besides his loving wife, Joy; and son, Marty (Martha) Bartlett; Art is survived by grandchildren, Scott Bartlett, Kelsey Hegarty, Jessica Bartlett; his great grandchildren, Aria and Allison Hegarty; his stepson, Dustin (Cecile) Doornbos; stepdaughter, Kristin (Ken) Bauer; and step-grandchildren, Grayson and Lily Doornbos, Mack, Ali, and Gunner.                                                                                                                                         

 A musical Celebration of Life will be held on June 21, 2025 at 4 p.m. at Algoma Baptist Church, 10515 Grange Ave NE, Rockford, MI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to Bible Club Ministries, Faith Hospice or to missions at Algoma Baptist Church.