Mariano "Mario" Bilotti

Mariano “Mario” Bilotti, 93 years old of Kenosha, WI passed away peacefully at Hospice Alliance Hospice House, Pleasant Prairie, WI.

He was born May 29, 1933, in Cerisano, Italy the son of the late Giuseppe and Emilia (Tenuta) Bilotti and grew up in Marano Principato. Mario immigrated to the United States at age 17, bringing with him the determination and work ethic that would shape his life. After arriving in America, Mario began working various jobs, including positions at Simmons and AMC Chrysler. With hard work and an entrepreneurial spirit, he eventually opened his own landscaping business. Always a man with dreams and ambitions, Mario’s greatest dream was to open an Italian restaurant. That dream became a reality when he and his beloved wife, Rose, opened the Italian Pavillion in Kenosha where they shared their love of Italian food and hospitality with the community.

Mario also pursued interests in real estate, owning and managing residential rental properties over the years. He often said that his happiest days were those spent working. He loved keeping busy, staying productive, and always having something to do. His strong work ethic, determination and love of life were defining parts of who he was.

Mario and Rose shared a deep devotion to their Catholic faith. They were avid churchgoers, and their faith remained an important foundation throughout their lives.

Mario was a true family man; one of his greatest joys was raising his children, taking trips up north and weekend picnics in Lake Geneva. His family will treasure the art of wine making that he taught them, even his son-in-law and grandsons learned about Italian winemaking, and it became an annual tradition. He leaves behind a legacy of family, faith, and the American dream fulfilled.

Mario leaves behind his children, Lillian (Dr. William) Jeranek of Pleasant Prairie, WI, Mary Sue Bilotti of Kenosha, WI and Mario M. (Sarah) Bilotti of Kenosha, WI; grandchildren, Dr. Matthew, Mark (Kaitlyn), Zachary, Katherine, Michael, Lucas, Francesca, and Marissa; great-grandchildren, Brady, Benjamin, and Bree Rosemary; brother-in-law, Philip Rizzitano; sister-in-law, Erminia Tucci; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mario was preceded in death by his wife, Rose in 2019; and brothers, Carmen (Ida) Bilotti and Armando (Gilda) Bilotti.

Mass of Christian Burial was held privately at St. Peter Church, Kenosha, WI followed by entombment in All Saints Mausoleum, Pleasant Prairie, WI. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to St. Peter Church, in his memory.