James DiBernardino
James A. DiBernardino, Jr., age 81, of Chillicothe, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Jim was born on November 8, 1943, in Chicago, IL to the late James A. and Mae (Viola) DiBernardino. He married Diane Marie Warn on September 7, 1968, in Chicago. He was a devoted husband and selfless caregiver for Diane until her death on August 9, 2007.
Surviving are his daughters, Julie (Jeffrey) DiBernardino-Doeden of East Peoria, IL and Laura (Brett) DiBernardino-Tilly of Peoria, IL; two granddaughters, Giada Doeden and Genevieve Tilly; his siblings, Judy DiBernardino of Chillicothe, IL and Timothy (Dianne) DiBernardino of Edelstein, IL; and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was affectionately known as “Boppa” by his granddaughters and was celebrated for his baking skills and famous “Boppa Bread” he made for family. He was also known for his sharp wit, and big, charming personality. His humor could be relied on to ease any stressful situation. A skilled craftsman and carpenter, Jim built many of his homes, and thanks to his meticulous attention to detail, specialized in custom millwork until his retirement in 2007. Throughout his life he lived on the Boundary Waters in Ely, MN where he was a true outdoorsman, guide and avid fishermen. He was a member of the Peoria Skeet and Trap Club, Chillicothe Sportsman Club, Peoria Casting Club, and Italian American Society of Peoria. Jim was also a talented artist and musician, playing several instruments by ear and composing songs for his beloved Diane. Jim attended St. Edward Catholic Church in Chillicothe.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe. A private immediate family graveside service will be held. All are invited to join the family for a luncheon at St. Edward Catholic Church in Chillicothe on Saturday, September 20, at noon. Memorial contributions in Jim’s honor may be directed to www.savetheboundarywaters.org or the Italian American Society of Peoria.