Anthony A. Bavaro

Anthony Alan Bavaro the son of Joseph and Lorie Bavaro was born August 27, 1982 in Chicago, IL. He was tragically and unexpectedly taken from this life on April 15, 2022.

Anthony was an exceptional human and words will not do him justice. He was gentle, loving, intelligent, caring, funny, and authentic. He made an indelible impact on everyone who had the privilege to call him family or friend. When he listened to you, he did it with his whole heart. When he loved you, he did it with his whole soul.

Face, a nickname his father gave him, morphed into pretty face to critter-face and pizza-face to Facemanguy. The moniker stuck and he loved it. He was especially pleased to become Father Face to officiate the wedding of Dave & Patty Dunski.

Not many of us can say we lived up to our expectations of ourselves, but Anthony did. It was important to him to be a man of his word, to treat everyone honestly and fairly, and to care about others without judgement or reserve. He was never one to look for the approval or accolades of others. He did so many kind things, not for social media likes, rewards or future favors, but because he understood something most of us miss in our day-to-day lives...relationships with people are the most important.

All of this is even more amazing considering just beneath his exuberant surface lied storm clouds of depression that follow many of us. He was unwilling to burden others with the pain he was anchored to. Instead, he chose to bring light to others in any way he could. He turned the darkest clouds into the most nourishing rain and showered people with understanding and affection, always thinking the best of everyone around him.

He was not only someone who would put his neck or checkbook on the line for people, he liked to live a little bit. His bucket list was nearly empty as he was always pioneering on an adventure. He traveled through Europe and explored nearly the entirety of the US with plans or blueprints, meeting new people and experiencing life as it was meant to be. Helping friends or family or acquiring new friends and family was just Face being Face.

His family and friends will keep his memory alive forever. He was the perfect son (just ask him, he would tell you) to his parents Joseph Bavaro (Aimee Frank) and Lorie Gorman (James Gorman). He was adored by his siblings Lisa, Christina, Joseph, Matthew and Joshua. Anthony’s inviting eyes and playful nature made him a favorite of kids everywhere. Uncle Anthony was especially beloved by his nieces and nephews Marissa, Lena, Ariana, Joshua, Deklan, Tristan, Malania, Dominic, and Holden. He had a special gift with kids and was selfless with his love and time. He was loved by countless other aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

Anthony wore his heart on his sleeve and its that same big heart that brought us all together. The world will be worse off without him, but we are all better individuals for knowing him.