John Allan Bartlow went peacefully home to Jesus at the age of 80 after a long and faithful journey, surrounded by love and upheld by the promises of Christ. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and servant of God, John lived a life marked by humility, compassion, relentless faith, and the power of the Holy Spirit.  Raised on a dairy farm in the Binghamton area as the oldest of six children, John developed a deep love for animals and a strong work ethic. After attending Cornell University, he enlisted in the Air Force, serving in Vietnam. He later attended Elim Bible Institute, where he met his beloved wife of 49 years, Elizabeth, and began a life centered on faith, family, and service.

John pastored Burns Community Church in Arkport, and Calvary Gospel Church in Utica, where he used his Russian language training to serve a bilingual congregation. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit—welcoming immigrants, supporting missionaries, and bringing pastors together in unity.

 John loved music, nature and his motorcycle. He played acoustic guitar on worship teams, enjoyed canoe camping in the Adirondacks, and spent countless hours traveling the world through Flight Simulator—often praying for the people and places he flew over.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Margaret, and his siblings, Janice and Kevin.

John is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Bartlow; his children Rachelle Bartlow, Jennifer and Nick Kang, Stephanie and Cedric Logan, and Evan Bartlow and fiancée Katelyn Morse; and his cherished grandchildren Olivia, Angelise, Sabrina, Judah, Elliot, Audrey, Lazarus, Naomi, and Carraway. He is also survived by his siblings Beth Seely, Peggy Ann McCracken, and Tim Bartlow, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

John’s family is profoundly grateful for the many years they were given with him, knowing he is now fully healed, at rest, and united with his Savior. “Sorrow may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” — Psalm 30:5

Family and friends are invited to visitation for John on Friday, January 16th from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at Jennings, Nulton & Mattle Funeral Home, 1704 Penfield Road, Penfield.  John's Funeral Service will be held Saturday, January 17th, 2:00pm at Word of Life Christian Fellowship, 3374 Winton Road, Rochester NY 14623. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow. Interment in White Haven Memorial Park will take place privately for his family.