Fransisco "Kiko" Bibian

Fransisco Bibian, lovingly known as “Kiko”, a devoted husband and beloved father, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at the age of 56. Born in Crete, Illinois, and a lifelong resident of Joliet, Kiko was a proud graduate of Joliet Central High School. He started working at Berlinsky Scrap Co. from a young age and later spent many years at Harrah’s Casino, where he had the pleasure of meeting and connecting with countless people. Kiko had a natural charm, he was cool, friendly, and always knew how to strike up a conversation. He made people feel comfortable, whether at work or out in the world.

Kiko was a true people person. He loved to laugh, joke around, and bring good energy wherever he went. He wasn’t just funny, he was goofy in a way that made him completely unique, and those close to him loved that about him. He had a warm spirit and infectious personality that brought joy to family, friends, and even strangers.

In his downtime, Kiko embraced the simple pleasures of life. He loved kicking back with a can of Coke and a bag of popcorn, often while watching wrestling with his son. He enjoyed stepping outside for a smoke when he wanted, unwinding in his own way. Kiko also enjoyed watching his favorite criminal and detective shows. He also tried his luck with scratch-offs all the time and played slot machine games on his phone. He was famously known as the “fireworks guy”, the one you’d go to for fireworks, and the one who loved lighting them up with excitement.

At family parties, Kiko was the life of the gathering. He had fun, danced, laughed, socialized, and was fully himself, surrounded by the people he loved and creating memories that will never fade. He was a constant presence at gatherings and was always reliable, joyful, and present.

He was also someone you could always count on. Kiko was generous with his time and heart, offering rides, even long-distance ones, just to help someone out. Whether it was running errands for someone, showing up when needed, or lifting someone’s spirits with a joke, he was always there. His kindness ran deep, and he never hesitated to give to others, no matter the inconvenience.

Kiko is preceded in death by his father, Braulio Bibian. He is survived by his loving mother, Eufemia Bibian; his wife of 25 years, Francisca Bibian, with whom he built a beautiful family; his son Marc Bibian, and daughters Dulce, and Erika Bibian. He is also survived by his siblings: Gloria (Noel) Reyes, Leticia (Ricardo) Hernandez, Jaime (Maricela) Bibian, Sylvia (Brian) Beckmann, Miguel (Veronica) Bibian, Elvia Bibian, and Veronica Bibian.

Kiko’s legacy is one of laughter, selflessness, and unforgettable moments. His presence lit up every room, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. “Some people plan their lives out. I just lit one up and went with it.” -The only way he knew how. Love you, Dad.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL 60435. Guests are invited to return to Tezak’s on the morning of Friday, May 23, 2025 at 9:00 am for closing prayers before we process to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 205 E. Jackson St. Joliet, IL for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Immediately following Mass, we will process to Saints Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, 2001 Maple Rd. Joliet, IL for interment with a graveside service.