Brad Bumber '89 & the History Behind Bumber's Locker Corner



The LaSallian Christian Brother educational tradition is structured to develop the spiritual, intellectual, social and physical development of students. During and after his time at Montini, Brad Bumber '89 became a living example of the LaSallian traditions both on and off the football field, and how those traditions and values positively influence and shape students during and after high school, throughout their entire life. Brad played linebacker for the Broncos from 1985 to 1989.

Brad genuinely loved being on the gridiron, and wanted to make every tackle on every play, but was also the first to congratulate his teammates for making a play. Through his daily commitment, work ethic, consistency, and good nature in the locker room, he earned the admiration and respect of his football teammates. He exemplified good sportsmanship, hard work, determination, and the confidence those traits naturally engender. He was a loyal teammate, and a morally grounded friend, recalls teammate Brian Forde '89.

Brad was diagnosed with cancer and fought valiantly, just as he did on the football field and in all aspects of his life. One of Brad's last wishes was to return to Montini to see one last football game and spend time with his old friends and coaches. On Friday, September 18, 2015, that dream was realized. "At the time, he was in the final stage of a long battle with cancer. He had lost almost 90 pounds, and was in excruciating pain," remembers Forde, "In typical Baumber fashion, and against all odds, he showed up!"

Sadly, Brad passed away exactly one week after that final homecoming at the age of 45. "His natural everyday disposition was truly inspired by the Gospel’s golden rule, the traditions of the Catholic Church, and the spiritual teachings of St. John Baptist de La Salle," remembered Forde. "In the truest sense possible, Brad lived the principles instilled in us each day while at Montini."

In 2018 during the Boys Locker Renovation, teammates and members of the Class of 1989 endowed Bumber's Corner Locker. Each year, a Montini Catholic Bronco varsity football player receives the honor to use the locker in Brad's honor. "Dedicating a football locker in his memory is the best way our class could think of to honor Brad's memory," said Forde. "The player chosen by his coaches to receive 'Bumber’s Corner' each year should feel extremely honored to be recognized for demonstrating similar attributes and qualities as Brad, and for the privilege to play Montini Bronco Football under the banner of his name and memory."

Past Recipients
2018 - Ray Wojkovich '19
2019 - Patrick Peters '20
2020 - Patrick O'Connor '21
2021 - Michael Carver '22
2022 - Luke Cushing '23

2023 - Alex Marre '24

In 2021, the Bumber Memorial Scholarship was created to further honor Brad and his traditions, values and dedication to Montini Catholic.

Donations to the Bumber Memorial Scholarship can be made by clicking the button to the right or via VENMO: @Montinicatholic.  Additionally, checks may be sent to Montini Catholic High School, 19W070 16th St., Lombard IL 60148 Attn: Bumber Scholarship.