Mando W. Di Bartolomeo

Mando W. Di Bartolomeo Jr., age 83, entered eternal life on Sunday, November 17, 2013 surrounded by his loving family.

Mando is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Lillian (nee Papesh); his five sons, Mando III, Anthony (Beth), Francis, Joseph and Gerald (Sandra) Di Bartolomeo; his grandchildren, Mando IV, Christina, Matthew, Alessandra and Mario, Mark and Nina Di Bartolomeo; one brother, Vincent (Josephine) Di Bartolomeo; numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

Preceded in death by his parents Mando Sr. and Frances (nee Racki) Di Bartolomeo; one son in infancy, Jasper; one brother James Bartolome.

Mando was a lifelong resident of Joliet and graduated from Joliet Township High School (1949). He was a proud United States Army veteran and served in the Korean War from 1952 to 1953. Mando was in the artillery division and served in the line of duty in the battle of Pork Chop Hill. He was a dedicated postal carrier for over 40 years serving the east side of Joliet. Mando was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus Council #4400 and earned his 4th degree over 20 years ago. He was also a member of the Stone City V.F.W. Post #2199.

Mando was very active in the community. He was the president of the St. Mary Sacred Heart School Board and was also elected as precinct committee man.

His love affair with his wife was an example to endurance of how a couple shares happiness and tribulations, to be true to each other, and in love forever. Dedicated father, he was very proud of putting his five sons through Joliet Catholic High School (1973-1985).

A celebration of Mando's life will begin on Friday, November 22, 2013 at 9:20 a.m. at funeral home, then driving in procession to St. Anthony Catholic Church in Joliet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Joliet. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2013 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet.