Vito Lullo

Vito Lullo, born on September 19, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 29, surrounded by his loving family.

Born to Emilio Lullo and Marianina Lullo, Vito was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished brother, uncle, and friend to many.

Vito is survived by his beloved wife, Rosa Lullo; his loving daughters, Maria Reglewski, married to Chris Reglewski, and Jennifer Culotta, married to Rosario Culotta. He was a proud grandfather to Nathan and Aidan Reglewski, and Emma and Salvatore Culotta.

He is also survived by his siblings: Donata Pezzuto and the late Michele Pezzuto; Vince Lullo and the late Nancy Lullo; Carmi Lullo and the late Antonetta Lullo; the late Rose Nigro and the late Vincenzo Nigro; Tina Deliso; and the late Jerry Lullo and Heather Lullo.

Vito was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, a cherished cousin, and a proud great-uncle and great-great-uncle. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Vito attended Steinmetz High School in Chicago, where he was proud to share his high school years with many members of his family. The friendships and memories he made during that time remained a meaningful part of his life.

Vito dedicated 45 years of his career as a heavy equipment bulldozer operator with Local 150, specializing in sewer and water construction. He took great pride in his work and in being a member of the union. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and admiration of his coworkers, who often spoke of what a pleasure it was to work alongside him. Known for his willingness to help others, extensive knowledge, a strong work ethic, and a great sense of humor, Vito never complained and always approached each day with determination and a smile. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and camaraderie will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with him.

Above all, Vito will be remembered for the remarkable person he was. Selfless, funny, and endlessly positive, he always put others before himself. If someone needed help, Vito was the first person they called, and he never hesitated to lend a hand. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and a way of lighting up every room he entered.

Family was the center of Vito's world, and there was nothing he wouldn't do for the people he loved. His contagious laughter, quick wit, and famous one-liners brought smiles to countless faces. He had a special nickname for nearly everyone in the family—names that have stood the test of time and will forever remind them of his love, humor, and the special bond he shared with each of them. To so many, he was known as the "World Famous Uncle Vito," a title that fit him perfectly because everywhere he went, people knew him, loved him, and were touched by his unforgettable personality.

Vito had a rare ability to make every person feel important. To so many, he was everyone's favorite—the kind of man whose kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His memory will live on through the laughter, love, and countless stories shared by all whose lives he touched.

Vito's greatest accomplishment in life was his family. Nothing brought him more pride or happiness than being a husband, father, and grandfather. He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren, whether it was taking them on special day adventures, family vacations, preparing his world-famous breakfast spread, or simply being there for the everyday moments. From school drop-offs and pick-ups to attending sporting events, school activities, and special milestones, Vito was always present. He never missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren, and their teachers, friends, and everyone who met him quickly came to know and love him. Everywhere he went, Vito left a lasting impression.

Vito was deeply proud of his Italian heritage and the traditions that brought his family together. He enjoyed making homemade wine and taralli, but nothing was more important than the family's annual sausage-making tradition. While the recipe was shared by the family, Vito was the only one who knew the exact amount of salt needed to make it just right. He never missed the opportunity to lend a hand, though those who knew him would say he was just as excited to enjoy the feast afterward as he was to help make it.

Anyone who knew Vito also knew his love for good food and pastries. He had his own unforgettable tradition of making his famous "zoupa" by crushing cookies, six folded pieces of toast, and donuts into his coffee and eating it like a soup. It was uniquely Vito and one of the many little things that made him so special. These cherished traditions, recipes, and memories will continue to bring smiles to his family for generations to come.

Vito's selflessness was never more evident than during life's greatest challenges. When Rosa courageously battled cancer, he stood faithfully by her side, caring for her with unwavering love, strength, and devotion. Soon after, Vito faced his own battle with brain cancer. Through countless appointments, treatments, and the gradual loss of many of his abilities, he never complained. His positive spirit, sense of humor, and love for others continued to shine through, reminding everyone of the remarkable man he was. In return, his family had the privilege and honor of caring for him each day with the same love, compassion, and dedication that he had always shown them. It was a blessing to give back to the man who had spent his entire life putting his family before himself. The values he lived by continue to guide those who loved him.

Above all, Vito's greatest love was his wife, Rosa. They shared a beautiful life together, and he rarely wanted to do anything without her by his side. Whether they were tending to their garden, taking long walks together, or traveling, they found joy simply in being with one another. One of their favorite traditions was their yearly trips to Arizona, where Vito's warm personality and genuine kindness led to lasting friendships. Their love was an inspiration to everyone who knew them.

Although Vito will be deeply missed, his love, laughter, traditions, unwavering devotion to his family, and the countless lives he touched will live on forever. His legacy is one of selflessness, kindness, hard work, faith in family, and unconditional love. He leaves behind not only cherished memories but a standard of how to live, love, and care for others that will continue for generations to come.