Michael A. Mancuso, Sr.

Age 91 of Wilmington, Illinois, formerly of Joliet, Illinois, died Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, Illinois.

Born September 7, 1933 in Joliet, Michael Anthony was the son of Anthony and Rose (Chellino) Mancuso. He was raised and educated in Joliet and graduated from Joliet Township High School with the class of 1951. On June 25, 1955, Michael married Lillian Lorraine Ward at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Joliet. He then served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1957, and upon his discharge from military service he returned to Joliet to begin his career.

Michael followed in his father's footsteps and worked for Metropolitan Life Insurance in Joliet for over 40 years, working diligently to provide financial security for his client families. He was a beloved agent not only to the clients he served but his company as well, often being recognized as one of the top salesman in the nation. Michael retired from the insurance business and, not one to sit idle, he began to work on remodeling and building homes in the Wilmington area. He used his talents and skills learned over the years to build over a dozen homes, even helping in building his sons' homes. Michael completed his real estate training to be able to sell the homes he remodeled or built, as well as purchasing the property that would become his family's farm. He was also a devoted member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Wilmington where he served as an usher for several years.

His home was his happy place, finding no greater joy than working on his garden, tending to his fruit trees, or sitting out on his hammock or swing enjoying the view of the river. Michael also took great pleasure in being out on his pontoon boat and participating in bowling leagues in Joliet and Wilmington for many years. He was a remarkable man who's determination and work ethic was inspirational to many, especially his children. To Michael, nothing was impossible and the word "can't" simply was not in his vocabulary. His honest nature and decency was recognized by anyone that crossed his path, as well as his trademark smile, but his love of family was always the number one priority for him.

Survivors include his wife, Lillian Mancuso of Wilmington, three children: Michael (Kim) Mancuso, Jr., Anthony (Melissa) Mancuso, and Joseph (Krystal) Mancuso, all of Wilmington; one son-in-law, Joe Petrovic of Florida; nine grandchildren: Nick (April) Mancuso, Michael (Shera) Mancuso III, Tyler (Amanda) Mancuso, Gina (Jake) Murphy, Taylor Mancuso, Makenzie Mancuso, Marina Mancuso, Jacob Proffitt, and Hannah Proffitt; eight great grandchildren: Max, A.J., Ivy, Michael IV, Avery, T.J., Kyler, and Kane; brothers and sisters-in-law: Shirley (the late John) Brookman, Carol (Harold) Clark, Pat Orosco, John (the late Marie) Ward, Bob (Kathy) Ward, and Don Podlesney; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Michelle Petrovic; three sisters: Angela (George) Turk, Marion (Richard) Wilhelmi, and Katherine (Glen) Trost; and three sisters-in-law: Phyllis Podlesney, Norma Jean (Ray) Webster, and Margaret (Thomas) Smith.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 604 South Kankakee Street, in Wilmington at 11:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Reverend Sebastion Gargol presiding and Deacon Jay Plese assisting.

Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Wilmington.

Preferred Memorials may be made as gifts in Michael’s memory to: Kuzma Care Cottage, 635 South Main Street, Wilmington, Illinois 60481.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Michael's memorial page via 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.