Emilio Lassalle

Emilio Lassalle Méndez, affectionately known as "Mijo," passed away on September 7, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois at the age of 96. Born on April 6, 1928, in Moca, Puerto Rico, Emilio's life was marked by a series of ventures and moves that showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and zest for life.

In his early twenties, Emilio moved to Buffalo, New York, and then returned to Puerto Rico before settling in various states across the U.S., including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, and finally, Illinois. His career was diverse, from farm picking to working at the Chicago Leather Factory and Appleton Electric Company. Emilio also ventured into entrepreneurship, opening storefronts and later working in maintenance downtown until his retirement in 1986. Post-retirement, he freelanced in buying homes cheaply and reselling them.

Emilio was a devout Catholic and participated actively in his faith community throughout his life. His personality was vibrant and full of life; he was the rock and provider for his family, always ensuring to spend quality time with them. Known for his storytelling, cooking, and hosting gatherings, he made sure every moment was a celebration of life. Emilio's love for travel often took him back to Puerto Rico to spend time with his siblings.

He is survived by a large and loving family, including his sons Jose, Antonio, Israel, Jimmy, Neftali, Edino, Emilio Jr., Hector, and his daughter Marilyn. Emilio also had a significant impact on his stepchildren Tony, Jorge, Reynaldo, David, Osvaldo, Orlando, Luis, Noel, and Marisol Pena. His life was further blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss his larger-than-life presence.

Emilio was preceded in death by his daughter Iris Lassalle Wright, his first wife Ramona Rodriguez Méndez, his parents Santiago Lassalle Ramos and Victoriana Mendez Roman, and his siblings Jose Pepe, Juan Santiago, Alejandrina, Beneta, Carmen, Ramona, Anita, Rosa, and Amparo Lassalle.

The funeral services will be held at Pietryka Funeral Home, located at 5734 W Diversey Ave., Chicago, IL 60639, from 1-5pm, where friends and family are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Emilio's remarkable life.