In loving memory of

Donna Jean Wolf Bartlow

February 21, 1960 — December 11, 1998

 

Donna’s Mama Bear Daycare and Learning Center is named in loving memory of Donna Bartlow, lifelong Garfield County resident and a devoted “Mama Bear” to her three children and to the community she loved.

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Donna had a deep love for children and a strong belief in nurturing young minds and hands through meaningful, engaging experiences that support healthy growth and development. Even after being diagnosed with breast cancer, Donna continued to share her creativity, compassion, and strength, bringing joy to those around her. She touched countless lives with her grace, courage, beauty, and light. Although Donna has passed, her inspiring spirit and love for children live on.

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In 2024, Merchant Memorial Group, Donna’s husband’s employer, learned of the community’s growing need for a dedicated child care facility. In response, they generously donated their underutilized Pomeroy facility, the former Richardson-Brown Funeral Home building, to Pomeroy Community Connection to be renovated as a child care center. The gift was made in Donna’s honor, recognizing her courage, kind heart, and unwavering commitment to her family and community.

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Donna’s Mama Bear Daycare and Learning Center represents the heart of a family, the power of generous giving, and a community’s commitment to caring for the next generation. It is the perfect name for the future child care center, and its work will reflect who Donna was and how she lived: bravely, with big love, attentive and nurturing, and always preparing her “cubs” for their next big adventure.