Norman L. Lardi

Age 86, of South Wilmington, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 14, 2025.

Born August 10, 1939 in South Wilmington, Norman was a son of Sereno Zene and Natalie (Dinelli) Lardi. He was raised and educated in South Wilmington and was a proud member of the Gardner-South Wilmington High School Class of 1957.

On November 28, 1959, Norman married his soulmate, Donita Arthur, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in South Wilmington. Their marriage was the foundation of a loving home where they raised their family and shared a lifetime of memories.

Norman began his career in construction soon after graduating high school, dedicating 30 years to Mazzurco Construction of Crest Hill, Illinois and another 15 years to Ray Serena Construction of Gardner, Illinois. He took great pride in his work, helping build local landmarks including the Coal City Library, St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet, and St. Paul Church. A loyal member of Laborers Local 75, Norman was proud of his trade and the lasting contributions he made to his community.

Norman had many hobbies and interests, especially his love of horse racing, both thoroughbred and harness. He was fortunate to attend the Kentucky Derby a few times, which he considered a real thrill. He also enjoyed playing the slot machines, coaching Little League and Pony League baseball, and playing men’s softball. Norman loved to travel, with his most memorable adventure being a Diamond Tours trip from Maine to the Florida Keys. Above all, he found the greatest joy in watching his grandchildren play sports.

Survivors include his wife Donita; three children: Norman, Jr. (Donna) Lardi of South Wilmington, Patti (the late Jeff) Hines of Gardner and Ron Lardi of Dwight, Illinois; seven grandchildren: Jennifer (Terry) Memmel; Kyle (Diana) Hines, Brandon Marks, Michelle (Mike) Phillips, Natalie (Jeff) Eddy, Tessa (Chris) Hammons and Paige (Luke) Jett; ten great-grandchildren: Lily, Hudson and Thea Eddy, Crosby and Cora Hammons, Beau Hines, Luca and Everly Phillips, Ivy Jett and Carter Memmel; one brother, Richard (the late Rosemary) Lardi, and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law: Dorothy Lardi, Shirley Lardi and John (Anita) Arthur, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Kenneth and Gene Lardi.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home, 203 Liberty Street in Gardner on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Monday October 20, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. Deacon William Dunn will preside. Burial will follow at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery in Braceville, Illinois.

Pallbearers are Jeff Eddy, Mike Phillips, Luke Jett, Chris Hammon, Kyle Hines and Tim Granger.  Honorary pallbearer is Brandon Marks.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Norman's memory to the South Wilmington Fire Department.

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

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-237-2526)