Bartolo Resto Jr.

Bartolo “Chico” Resto Jr., age 67, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025. Born on February 27, 1958, he was a beloved son of Bartolo T. Resto Sr. and Irene B. Resto. He grew up in a close-knit family whose love shaped his warmth, humor, and the confident way he carried himself throughout his life. 

Bartolo became well-known in Northwest Indiana, especially for his love of baseball. As a gifted athlete, he played for the All Star Baseball Team for Northwest Indiana, an experience he cherished and often spoke of with pride. His passion for sports carried throughout his life—whether enjoying a baseball game or relaxing while watching wrestling, Bartolo loved every moment.  

Dedicated to his community, Bartolo served as an Alderman for the City of Gary, working hard to represent and support the people he served. He went on to build a meaningful career as a Motor Coach Operator for Rek-Travel Chicago Charter, a role he truly enjoyed. He also worked as a security guard, always committed to providing for his family. Bartolo honorably served his country and was discharged from the United States Army on September 1, 1982, as a Specialist 4 USAR, a service that reflected his courage, loyalty, and discipline.  

Bartolo’s personality was unforgettable. He loved a good joke, carried himself with pride, and had sayings that became part of the family’s language—especially “Boy…” and the playful “Dudu dint.” He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: an ice-cold Diet Pepsi, reclining in his favorite chair, watching TV, and listening to the music he loved. Two of his favorites were Carlos Santana and the song “Low Rider.” In his younger years, he had a passion for cars—fixing them, learning about them, and spending time around anything with an engine. 

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: Aunts: Carmen Gonzalez, Rosie Cruz, and Margaret Gallow, Siblings: John Anthony Resto; Wilfread Resto (Tina Resto); Hope Griffith (JR Griffith); and David Resto (Lauree Resto), Children: Evelyn Resto; Naomi Smith (Chris); Bernadette Resto; and Andrea Resto, Grandchildren: Andre’, Arlawna, Aaron, Ernest, Benjamin, Omena, Nejere, Aja, Briana, LaShaye, Adriana, and Kobe, Great grandchildren: Nathan, Nova, Special Friend: Kim Sims. Bartolo also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever treasure the laughter, strength, and love he shared with each of them. Bartolo will be remembered for his strong presence, the smile that brightened every room, and the way he always looked forward to whatever journey life had next for him. His spirit lives on in every laugh, every story, and every memory shared by those who loved him.

Celebration of Life 1 pm Thursday, December 18, 2025 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 10 am- 11 am. Family will receive friends 12 pm - 1 pm.

Livestream Link: http://www.facebook.com/Stream-All-Services-102620271622310/

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