'Mr. Wheaton' remembered for charisma, kindness
Loved ones say that Bart Loiacono was the ultimate promoter, the life of the party, a man who always knew how to work a room.
And they know that while the lifelong Wheaton resident has lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, his generous and funloving spirit will live on.
"He was the most kind, loving and generous person I've known," said Pamela Loiacono, Bart's sister. "I won't lie and say this hasn't been incredibly difficult, but we'll always have so many wonderful memories of him."
Bart Loiacono, who died Thursday at his home at the age of 55, made it his life's work to ensure that people had fun. He was the founder and publisher of NiteLife.org magazine, a monthly guide to the best places to eat, drink and dance in the suburbs. Earlier, he owned a restaurant in West Chicago and ran his own DJ company, ABL Productions. In the latter role, he became a vital part of countless wedding celebrations and New Year's Eve parties throughout the Chicago area over the years.
David Loiacono, Bart's brother, said Bart's ability to organize and run events became apparent when he organized a basketball fundraiser while attending Wheaton's St. Francis High School in the 1970s.
"He just knew how to get people together and make them enjoy themselves," David said. "And he seemed to come up with ideas before anyone else."
For instance, Bart's restaurant was one of the first in the area to offer live entertainment on weekends, David said. And even before the karaoke craze swept the nation, Bart was there organizing karaoke events.
Bart started NiteLife.org in 1992. One of his favorite activities was the Best of the Burbs contest that the magazine held every year, said his nephew, Will Jordan. Launched in the mid 1990s, the contest allowed residents to nominate suburban businesses as the best in a number of categories. Winners received plaques at an annual party.
"Everyone had a blast at those parties," said Jordan, who helped his uncle set up the online voting system for the contest. "He was such a people person. I don't know that I've ever met anyone else as charismatic."
Family members said no decisions have been made regarding the future of Best in the Burbs or NiteLife.org.
In addition to his professional activities, Bart was also known for his civic and charity work. Family members say he never hesitated to lend his time or money to charitable causes. He also helped friends and even employees who needed a hand.
His devotion to the Wheaton community was apparent in his popular role as announcer for the city's annual Fourth of July parade and fireworks show, something he did for more than two decades. This past July 4, though too weak to announce the event, he served as the parade's grand marshal.
"One of my uncles called him 'Mr. Wheaton,'" David Loiacono said. "That name really fits."
Bart was also known by some as "Mr. Entertainment," and his visitation service today could include some musical tributes, David said.
The visitation runs from 2 to 7 p.m. at Williams-Kampp Funeral Home, 430 E. Roosevelt Road, Wheaton. The funeral Mass will start at 11:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael Catholic Church, 310 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton.
Bart is survived by his six siblings, his wife and two sons, and 21 nieces and nephews.