Bud Lombardi

N.C. Bud Lombardi

Age 86 of Wilmington, Illinois passed away peacefully on Friday morning, January 3, 2025 at his home.

Born on February 10, 1938, in Chicago, Bud was a son of Nicholas Dominic and Caroline Mae (Kohlstedt) Lombardi. Raised on the South Side of Chicago, Bud graduated from De La Salle High School and went on to honorably serve in the United States Army Reserves. In 1958, he moved to Wilmington when his family purchased the local automobile dealership, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to his community.

On May 20, 1961, Bud married the love of his life, Donna Rae Roou, at St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home where they raised their family and created countless cherished memories.

Bud dedicated his professional life to the family business, Lombardi Chevy Buick, which went on to include throughout the years, the auto body shop and car wash. He remained involved in the business until 2020.

A devout member of St. Rose Catholic Church, Bud gave his time and talents to his parish community. He served on the board of The Area #1 Outdoor Club (Miners Club), held the role of Wilmington Township Clerk, and was a member of the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association (IADA). Bud also coached Little League baseball and basketball at St. Rose School.

In his free time, Bud was an avid woodworker and found enjoyment in camping. He was a dedicated volunteer, lending his time and energy to countless local fundraisers and community events. Above all, Bud cherished time spent with his family, never missing an opportunity to support his grandchildren's activities and milestones.

Survivors include his children: Suzie Probus and Jim (Jodi) Lombardi, both of Wilmington; grandchildren: Nicholas Lombardi, Ben Probus, Chloe Lombardi, Sam Probus, Matteo Lombardi and Joe Probus, and one brother-in-law, Larry Roou of Wisconsin.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Donna on April 5, 2020; father and mother-in-law: Stanley and Frances Roou; son-in-law, Charlie Probus, Jr., one sister, Kay Murphy and one brother in infancy.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow Thursday morning, January 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Rose Catholic Church, 604 S. Kankakee Street in Wilmington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Rev. Sebastian Gargol presiding.

Burial will be in Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Wilmington, where Bud will be laid to rest with his late wife, Donna.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Bud’s memory to Kuzma Care Cottage, 635 S. Main Street, Wilmington, IL 60481.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Bud’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)