East Alton,

Tracy Darren Bartholomew, age 53, died peacefully with family members, by his side, on February 25, 2015 at 9:05 pm at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO, after a lengthy illness.

Tracy was the seventh son born to Theodore and Virginia Bartholomew (McCleery) on April 8, 1961 in Wood River, IL.

Tracy was an ardent animal lover and enjoyed the outdoors. His passions were for his family, fishing and NASCAR racing.

Tracy worked in the automotive sales industry for many years. Employment included Coulson Barker Cadillac and Dave Mungenast Toyota in Alton.

Tracy's journey through life included his fiancé, the love of his life, Laura Whorl, together they had a daughter Kristy Lee. Holding her hand is husband Aaron Croy of East Alton and three grandchildren; sister-in-law, Cynthia Whorl; brother-in-law, Daniel Whorl; niece Rachel Patterson who was like a daughter.

Tracy is survived by Laura, their daughter Kristy, a grandson Dillon Duncan age 11, twin granddaughters Larissa and Marissa Crandall age 7; 5 brothers, Thomas of Bethalto, Timothy and Ginger of Alton , Terry and Mary of St. Louis Mo., Todd and Martha of Brighton, Toby of Alton, and 4 sisters Phyllis Brockman of Alton , Peggy and Gary Kruemmelbein of Worden , Paula Vandiver of East Alton, Pam and Tom Hawkins of Alton; with numerous nieces and nephews, close friends.

Preceeding Tracy in death are both parents, and a brother Teddy.

Visitation is from 9:00 a.m., Monday, March 2, 2015 until service time at 11:00 a.m., at Gray Funeral Home in Wood River with pastor Roy Rhodes officiating.

Burial will be private.

Memorials may be given to Gray Funeral Home.