Joseph C. Bartholomew, 82, passed October 23, 2017 at the Samaritan Keep Nursing Home, where he had been a resident since May. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, October 27 at Glenwood Cemetery with Military Honors. He was born on May 6, 1935, in Watertown, son of Charles R. and Grace B. Willard Bartholomew.   He graduated from IHA in 1953 where he was a standout basketball player and athlete. Following school he entered the US Marine Corp in 1953 and was honorably discharged in 1956.  He received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. Joseph then returned to Watertown where he worked for Carhart Photography located in the Kinney Drugs Store in the Seaway Plaza for many years.  He moved to Syracuse and was a Machinist at O.M. Edwards for over 20 years, and drove school bus for special needs children before retiring. In 2003 he moved to Country View Apartments in Adams. He enjoyed playing golf and was a scratch golfer, darts, bowling and playing pool.  He loved watching old classic movies and was an avid Syracuse University fan. He is survived by a sister in law, Betty Bartholomew, NC, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by two brothers, Robert and Raymond Bartholomew, four sisters, Betty O'Neill, Alice Doane, Anita Gardner and Grace Bartholomew,  and his niece and caregiver, Judith L. Morgia. Online condolences may be made at www.hartandbrucefh.com