A crude swastika and a Hitler-style mustache were scrawled on the large bust with a magic marker, likely overnight on Wednesday.

The bust is displayed in the front yard of Doug Flood's home just outside the city. Flood is the former operator of the Guy Lombardo Music Centre.

Flood said he is holding off attempting to clean the bust that he values at $12,000 to $15,000 until he can consult with a friend who sells cemetery monuments.

Flood's wife Eleanor bought the bust in 2003 and donated it to the citizens of London. It was displayed in the Lombardo music centre until the centre was closed by the city in 2007.

The bust passed through several hands before the Floods installed it in their yard about 18 months ago, surrounded by a decorative walkway and gardens.

Although it is in his yard, Flood said the bust still belongs to the people.

"You would think that since the citizens of London own it they wouldn't do anything to it."

Lombardo and his Royal Canadians achieved major international success during the big-band era. It's estimated he sold as many as 300 million records, making him Canada's all-time best-selling recording artist.

Flood is frustrated and said the vandalism illustrates the lack of respect for one of the city's most famous sons. He said Lombardo is recognized and honored all over the continent.