Kevin Duane Bartholomew, loving husband, father and grandfather

OLEAN — Kevin Duane Bartholomew, of Olean, passed away Thursday (Jan. 22, 2026) at Buffalo General Hospital, after a short illness, with loving family by his side.

Kevin was born in Batavia on July 6, 1954, the son of Lloyd Jr. “Doc” and Ethel “Jimmy” Bartholomew. On April 9, 1983, in Immanuel Lutheran Church, he married the love of his life, the former Laurie Dalaba, who survives.

A graduate of Olean High School, he went on to work for Popeyes, McGraw Edison and Swatts Bakery.

His passion was working as a nationwide Santa, which he did for years. He loved to bring smiles to the children’s faces who called him Santa. He often said, “he wouldn’t belong to a club that would accept him as a member”.

Kevin was a devoted husband, a loving father and a proud grandfather, whose greatest joy was his family. Known for his sense of humor and generous heart, he was a staple of the community and someone people could count on. His kindness, laughter and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Laurie; his children, Ericka (Quenten) Pedde, Shawn (Michelle) Mott, Jason Shoup, Cassandra (Steven) Geise and Jessica (Steve) Ross; his too many to count grandchildren; siblings, Jeffie-Mike, Eric and Tracey; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd Jr “Doc” and Ethel Marie “Jimmy;” a sister, Linda Lee; and several aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Kevin’s Life will be held at a future date and time to be announced.

Memorials may be made if desired to The Muscular Dystrophy Association at https://www.mda.org/ or to the Cattaraugus County SPCA, 2944 Route 16N, Olean, NY 14760.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.

“I love you Buddy, bye, bye”