Louis D. Tilotta (Buddy) passed away July 18, 2013 at age 89. Buddy was born and raised on the family farm on Post Oak Rd. in Houston, now known as the Galleria area. He was one of eight children born to Santo "Sam" Tilotta and Virginia Sedita. After attending school and working on the family farm, Buddy raced midgets and stock cars everywhere from Playland Park (site of the current Astrodome) to a converted bullring in Juarez, Mexico. After a close call in a race he sold his car to a well-known racing legend. After serving his country in the US Army, he ultimately became a commercial real estate broker. Buddy founded Coastal Properties in 1956 and became known for his savvy real estate negotiations and colorful character. He could be seen driving his beloved yellow Model T through the streets of Houston. He loved his family and cherished his friends. He loved life and was known for throwing great well-attended birthday parties for himself. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mickey, his stepson, Kenny Downam, brothers, Phil, Tommy and Tony as well as sisters, Josephine, Natalie and Margie. Buddy is survived by his brother, Lee and wife, Pegge Tilotta and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 8:00pm (rosary/vigil at 7:00pm), Monday, July 22 with Buddy's funeral service to take place at 10:30am, Tuesday, July 23, all to be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home in Houston. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Garden of Memories. In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to any of the following charities close to Buddy's heart: Sacred Heart Society in Houston, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston or the American Diabetes Association .

Published in Houston Chronicle from July 21 to July 22, 2013