Edward Babbini

Eddie grew up in Highwood, IL, where he made some lifelong friends. They each have “adventure” stories with Eddie, with one being more outrageous than the next.

After attending Trinity College, Eddie started his career at the Waukegan Developmental Center, which is now the Ann M. Kiley Center, as an Educator in Unit 2. There, “Hi Ho the Clown” was born, and was a hit on the Center’s TV shows, birthday parties, and entertainment. He was also a Scout Master at the Center and didn’t miss an opportunity to bring the Individuals to the Zion parades and Halloween parties at the Taylor Farm.

Eddie later became the Volunteer Services Coordinator, where he made many “runs” to pick up donations of clothing and furniture, and was devoted to making sure the Individuals and staff always had what they needed.

He finished his career at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, where he continued his work as a Volunteer Services Coordinator. He had many employees whom he enjoyed rewarding for their volunteerism by bringing them to various places like casinos.

Eddie felt honored to be the Godfather to a number of children of the staff from the Kiley Center and was forever proud of each of his godchildren. He loved entertaining at his sister Judy’s house, where he told more stories that were created over many glasses of wine and Joe’s good cooking.

A very special thank you for the dedication, compassion, and friendship of Pam Morrical and Donna and Brent Walls, while also being his caregivers in his last few years as he lived with Parkinson’s Disease.

Eddie is survived by his sister Judy (the late Joe) DeFilippis; nieces Rachele (Wes) Hoadley and Dana (Tim) Verbeten; great-nieces Christina (Jake) Schwartz, and Morgan and Gabrielle Verbeten, and great-nephew Michael Schiappa; and friends such as Nancy Montemurro, Enzo Magrin, George Medina, and so many others who were so special to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Anna Babbini, and his brother-in-law Joe DeFilippis.

A private interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery at 9:30am on Wednesday July 29, 2026, followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00pm at Birchwood Grill 7515 125th Ave. Kenosha, WI 53142.