Opyt Funeral Home

04/24/2026

Eileen Nottoli (nee Lynch)

Eileen Nottoli (nee Lynch), born on August 12, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026. She was a cherished and devoted woman whose life touched the hearts of many with her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family.

Eileen was the beloved wife of the late Ralph M. Nottoli, whose memory she held dear throughout her life. Together, they built a legacy of warmth and devotion that continues through their children and descendants.

She was a loving mother to Deborah Nottoli, Dennis Nottoli— who is married to Denise and a retired Florida Deputy Sheriff-and Mark Nottoli, a retired member of the Chicago Police Department. Eileen took great pride and joy in the achievements and lives of her children.

Her nurturing spirit extended to her grandchildren: James Emerson, Nicholas Emerson, Shannon Nottoli, Vincent Nottoli, Derek Nottoli, Angelo Nottoli, and Anthony Nottoli. Each carried a piece of her compassion and guidance in their lives. Eileen's joy grew even more as she became a proud great-grandmother to Lyric Powell, whose presence brought her endless delight.

Eileen’s familial bonds extended beyond her immediate family, as she was a loving sister and a cherished aunt. Her warmth and kindness made her a beloved sister-in-law and friend to many, reflecting a life enriched by close relationships and heartfelt connections.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Marjorie Lynch. Their legacy lives on through the family she so lovingly raised.

Her passing is a profound loss, but her memory shines brightly in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever honor the remarkable woman she was. Eileen Nottoli's life was a testament to love, dedication, and the enduring strength of family bonds. May she rest in eternal peace.

View Eileen Nottoli (nee Lynch)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/22/2026

Gilbert F. Garcia

Age 78, late of South Chicago, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2026. Beloved husband of Mary Garcia (nee Kamin). Caring father of Jeremy Garcia, Alison Garcia and Gilbert Garcia Jr. Loving brother of Rose Garcia Cano, Isabell (late Romualdo Sr.) Medrano and Gloria (Marjan Nikolovski) Gonzalez. Kind uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents: Gilbert C. and Natividad Garcia. Gilbert proudly and honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the VFW Chapter 17 and DAV Post 802.

04/21/2026

Salvador Gonzalez

Salvador Gonzalez, a beloved figure known for his unwavering dedication to his family and community, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on December 20, 1946, in Mexico, Salvador's life was a testament to hard work, compassion, and the importance of family.

As a loving father, Salvador is survived by his children, Ignacio (Diana), Salvador, Karina and Edgar (Susana). His deep affection for his family was palpable, as he took great pride in watching his children grow and thrive. He extended this love to his role as a proud grandfather, cherishing his time spent with Eder, Jose, Frida, Evelyn, Aldair, Alessandro, and Giovanny. Each grandchild held a special place in his heart, and their lives brought him immense joy.

Salvador was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosa Elvia Gonzalez, and his parents, Jose Gonzalez and Enriqueta Casillas. Their memories lived on through the stories shared and the lessons imparted, inspiring his family to carry forward his legacy of love and resilience.

As we remember Salvador Gonzalez, let us celebrate a life well-lived, marked by devotion to family, and the many moments of happiness he brought to those around him. He will always be remembered fondly by his family and friends, who are grateful for the time they shared with him. His spirit will continue to shine brightly in their hearts, reminding them of the enduring power of love and family bonds.

***************************************************

Salvador González, una figura querida conocida por su dedicación inquebrantable a su familia y a su comunidad, falleció el lunes, 20 de abril de 2026, a la edad de 79. Nacido el 20 de diciembre de 1946, en México, la vida de Salvador fue un testimonio de trabajo arduo, compasión y de la importancia de la familia.

Como padre amoroso, Salvador deja a sus hijos: Ignacio (Diana), Salvador, Karina y Edgar (Susana). Su profundo cariño por su familia era evidente, ya que se sentía sumamente orgulloso de ver a sus hijos crecer y prosperar. Extendió ese amor en su papel de orgulloso abuelo, atesorando cada momento compartido con Eder, José, Frida, Evelyn, Aldair, Alessandro y Giovanny. Cada nieto ocupaba un lugar especial en su corazón, y sus vidas le brindaron una inmensa alegría.

Salvador fue precedido en la muerte por su amada esposa, Rosa Elvia González, y por sus padres, José González y Enriqueta Casillas. Sus recuerdos permanecen vivos a través de las historias compartidas y las lecciones impartidas, inspirando a su familia a continuar con su legado de amor y resiliencia.

Al recordar a Salvador González, celebremos una vida bien vivida, marcada por la devoción a la familia y por los muchos momentos de felicidad que brindó a quienes lo rodeaban. Siempre será recordado con cariño por su familia y amigos, quienes agradecen el tiempo que compartieron con él. Su espíritu continuará brillando en sus corazones, recordándoles el poder duradero del amor y los lazos familiares.

View Salvador Gonzalez's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/15/2026

Patrick J. O'Connor

Patrick J. O’Connor Age 69, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 13, 2026. Pat John, “P.J.”, was a loving father to Elizabeth (Jamie) Dombrowski and Jeremy O’Connor, and a proud grandfather to Lucas and Madison Dombrowski. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Nathan Dombrowski, whom he held close in his heart. He was a dear brother to Donna (Robert Kolasa) O’Connor, David O’Connor, and Mary Ann (Michael) Gozdecki, and was preceded in death by his siblings Irene (George) Dobda and Patricia (Jim) Bezler. Pat was also a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a proud great-uncle to many great-nieces and nephews. Each time a new member joined the family, he welcomed them with genuine joy and pride, always happiest when surrounded by his growing family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Marjorie (Hogan) O’Connor, who cherished their firstborn son. Pat John was so proud to be named after his Irish Grandfathers. Pat dedicated many years as a loyal employee of the Chicago Skyway and later retired from the Chicago Fire Department. He was known for his steady presence and devotion, taking pride in being someone others could count on. He was truly one of a kind—a character in the best sense—sometimes quiet and reserved, yet full of personality. Those who knew Pat will always remember his jovial, unmistakable laugh and the warmth it brought to any room. He especially enjoyed playing Santa Claus, embracing the role with humor and heart, and creating lasting memories for those around him. Pat also had a gift for storytelling. He could spin a tale like no other, adding his own flair and embellishments along the way—often leaving you wondering where the truth ended and the story began, and enjoying every minute of it. He found great meaning and connection through his 30+ years involvement with his AA community, where he built lasting friendships and support. Pat loved the simple joys of life, especially fishing and spending summers at his cottage, where he felt most at peace. Family gatherings were never complete without the pie he brought along—a tradition everyone came to expect and look forward to, thanks to his well-known sweet tooth. He also had a playful and memorable way about him—often being the first to slip quietly out of family gatherings, the “Irish Goodbye”. And while he had a knack for sidestepping a few household chores, it was all part of the charm that made him uniquely Pat. He took special pride in a family tradition—making sure every child learned to ride their bike. He firmly believed that passing the “bicycle test” before summer’s end was a rite of passage, and he was always ready to encourage, coach, and cheer from the sidelines. Pat will be remembered for his individuality, his laughter, his stories, and his devotion to family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral arrangements are pending.

View Patrick J. O'Connor's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/12/2026

Wanda Bugajski (nee Winceniak)

Age 92, late of Hegewisch, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026. Loving mother of Ellen (Dale) Whitely, James (Dori) Bugajski and Janet (Bobby) Bird. Proud grandmother of Mark, Henry (Jesse), Matthew, Jacob, Allison and Max. Kind aunt of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by husband Henry F. Bugajski; parents: Joseph and Julia Winceniak and siblings: John, Stanley, Stella, Irene and Edward.

View Wanda Bugajski (nee Winceniak)'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/04/2026

Margaret M. Stachura (nee Davis)

Age 71, late of Hegewisch, passed away Friday, April 3, 2026. Loving mother of Margaret Hrabar, Gloria Hargett and Elizabeth (Michael) Jones. Caring grandmother of Alexzandria Hrabar, Kayla, Padraig and Chantel Hargett, Chloe, Lillian and Cy Jones. Proud great grandmother of Adain, Roman, Rakarie, Josiah, Emilio, McKenzie, Nevaeh and Aylani. Kind sister of Jeff (Wendy) Davis. Dear aunt of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by husband Robert Stahura, parents: Odie and Ruth Davis, and siblings: Johnny Davis and Odie Davis.

*****************

To my beloved Fave Memaw,

With a heart full of love and gratitude, I write this in memory of a woman who meant so much to me and to everyone blessed to know her. As your great grandson, I will always carry your warmth, your wisdom, and your gentle spirit with me.

You were more than a grandmother—you were a source of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. You made sure I always had our favorite snacks, and I’ll forever be grateful for all the time we spent together watching movies, laughing side by side. I’ll always think of you when I watch YouTube and remember how much we laughed at Timmy and Billy—they were our favorite.

I’m going to miss helping you, especially when you needed your cup of ice from upstairs. Those little moments meant everything to me. You always told me I healed your heart after Papa passed, and I’m so grateful I could be by your side through both the good times and the sad ones.

Though you are no longer with us, your legacy lives on in our hearts and in the memories we cherish every day. I will miss you always, but I am forever thankful that I got to call you my Favorite memaw.

With all my love Adain

View Margaret M. Stachura (nee Davis)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/08/2026

James "Jim" Magro Sr.

James “Jim” Magro Sr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, in Austin, Texas at the age of 92. He was born on July 29, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, to Frank and Anna (Matusik) Magro and grew up with his brother, Ronald Magro, who preceded him in death. Jim lived a life defined by love, laughter, and a deep sense of humor that endeared him to everyone he met.Jim spent his early years on Chicago’s North Side and moved to Hegewisch–East Side at 13. In 1958, he met the love of his life, Helen (Moskwa) Magro, and the two were married, beginning a remarkable 64-year journey together filled with devotion, partnership, and countless cherished memories. As they built their life together, Jim and Helen made their home in several communities — from South Holland and Crete — before eventually splitting time between Georgia and Texas to remain connected to their children and beloved granddaughters.

Jim was the proud father of Donna (Greg) Miller and James “Jim” (Melanie) Magro Jr. He found immeasurable joy in his role as grandfather to Ashley Magro and Krista (David) Pfau. Jim had a way of showing love to his grandchildren with his hands and actions — from shared laughter and storytelling to the handmade gifts he and Helen lovingly built over time. In addition to being a devoted family man, He was also a proud member of the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) local Chapter 134. Jim took great pride in his work, and his reputation for not only his skill, but honest work and reliability preceded him and allowed him to own his own business, J. Guardian Electric, in Chicago. His strong work ethic, determination, and craftsmanship reflected the values he carried throughout his life and passed on to those around him.

Jim’s hallmark quality was his dedication to being a family man. Ever-present, reliable, and ready to arrive to any scene with perspective and an unparalleled sense of humor, he had a knack for making any situation better. In a time where many would turn a blind eye to someone in need, Jim was the first to offer a helping hand to anyone who asked.It’s worth noting that amongst all of the anecdotes of Jim’s dedication to family that he was also a was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served his country. He was also a longtime member of the Cesare Battisti Lodge #27 in Schererville, Indiana. A stranger to no one, Jim’s legacy lives on in the brotherhood he leaves behind.

Jim Magro, as it has been said, “loved others to the point of invention.” He leaves behind physical mementos in the form of safely-wired homes for families to grow up in, tack boxes for his eldest granddaughter, Ashley, and her horses, swing sets for his youngest, Krista, and intricately-constructed (and to no one’s surprise, electrically-wired) dollhouses for both. His sense of humor and genuine interest in others’ lives on in both of his children who have, like Jim, never met a stranger.

But overall, his legacy is carried greatly by his partner and wife of 64 years, Helen, who knew him best. It’s a love story that sounds like a Nicholas Sparks novel: two young people meeting for the first time, Jim who happened to be driving by while Helen nursed a flat tire after leaving work at Helen’s House of Fashion.

Together, they built a life that many often dream of with family at the heart of it. A modern-day force and partnership that current times would be proud of, their legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, unwavering devotion, and a sense for always doing the right thing by others. His kindness, humor, and integrity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

View James "Jim" Magro Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/05/2026

Robert Jr. "Bob" Pannell

Robert (aka: Jr or Bob) Pannell was born on October 11, 1951, in Guntersville, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Edna Pannell and his brothers Edward (Neal) Pannell, Jackie (Bill) Pannell

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Elizabeth “BettyAnn or Liz” Pannell; his first wife: Bette (nee Lill) Reskey; his children, Antonette Slater; Bobby (Lisa) Pannell; Kathy (Chris) Mastny; Christine (Danny) Garrett; and Robert L. Pannell; his grandchildren, Rochelle (Omar) Cabrera; Nicholas (Imari) Piloni; Ryan (Mary Claire) Piloni; Billy Garrett; Jeffery (Valon Lopez) Slater; Joshua Pannell; and Austin (Angel Lema) Slater; Krissy (Matt) Flutka; Meranda (Jonathan) Graves;

Kayla (Reiniche) Black; Amelia and Sarah Mastny and his great-grandchildren, Aidian and Celeste Cabrera, Olivia, Lucas and Hailey Flutka; Evelyn and Alayna Graves; Emmery and Stella Sisk

Robert was a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews and a cherished friend to all who met him.

In lieu of flowers donations to either:

American Heart Association https://www.heart.org

American Diabetes Association https://www.diabetes.org

View Robert Jr. "Bob" Pannell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/25/2026

Robert M. Kowalczyk "Bobby"

Age 40, late of Hegewisch, passed away Friday, January 23, 2026. Beloved son of Edward H. and Diana Kowalczyk. Loving brother of Edward G. (Christine) Kowalczyk. Proud uncle of Kyle, April and Maycie Underdahl. Caring nephew of Diane (Robert) Josephson and late Robert (Rhonda) Reuss. Dear cousin of Kristy Reuss and Michelle Reuss and many others. Cherished godson of Myra Telac. He will be missed by his feline friend Roxanne.

View Robert M. Kowalczyk's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/18/2026

Lorraine Sapinski(nee Jasek)

Lorraine Sapinski (nee Jasek), born on August 21, 1926, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Her remarkable life was marked by a commitment to her community, where she was an active participant and a vital member of the Golden Agers and Seniors at Lebanon Lutheran Church.

Throughout her life, Lorraine was cherished not only for her vibrant spirit but also for her warm-heartedness. She was a caring aunt to many nieces and nephews, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and community involvement.

Lorraine is preceded in death by her beloved husband, the late Joseph Sapinski, along with her parents, Stanley and Barbara Jasek. She was also preceded by her siblings: Barney Jasek, Helen Ziemek, Theodore Jasek, and Matthew Jasek. Their memories continue to echo within the lives of those who knew them.

The legacy of Lorraine Sapinski will forever be remembered by all whose lives she touched. Her dedication to others and her spirited involvement in her community will continue to inspire future generations.

View Lorraine Sapinski(nee Jasek)'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/09/2026

John J. Ell

Age 78, late of Hegewisch, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026. Beloved husband of Joann M. Ell (nee Habzansky). Loving father of Julie Ell and the late Jennifer (late John) Stepek. Caring grandfather of Forsythia Pezel, Damon (NeVaeh) Pezel, Devon Pezel, John (Amanda) Stepek, Jillian Stepek, Jordan Stepek and Jacob Stepek. Proud great grandfather of Victor Robinson, Atlas Robinson, Atticus Robinson and Bryce Martinez. Kind brother of Kathleen Kirgis and the late Peggy Novacich. Dear uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents: John and Catherine Ell. John proudly and honorably serviced his country in the US Army. He was also a coach for the Hegewisch Girls Softball Team. John was also a diehard sports fan and loved watching the Blackhawks and Cubs.

Private Services were held.

View John J. Ell's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Henry "Gonzie" Gonzales

Henry "Gonzie" Gonzales, age 76, born and raised in South Deering and a longtime resident of Hegewisch, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Born on July 18, 1949, Henry was a cherished husband, loving father, and dedicated grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Olga Gonzales (nee Rosario), and he was proud to be the father of his two children, Lena (Marcus) Gonzales Smith and Matthew (Christy) Gonzales. His legacy continues through his caring grandchildren: Maya, Malayna, Gavin, Julian, and Lexi. As the oldest brother of seven siblings, Henry held a special place in the hearts of his family, as he was also a dear uncle and Godfather to many. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph “Joe” Gonzales and Josephine “Fina” Gonzales and his brother, Joe “Chief” Gonzales.

Henry proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army, where he distinguished himself as a Vietnam Veteran. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to his fellow veterans and was a former Commander of VFW Post 802, as well as a member of AMVETS Post 43, American Legion Post 180 and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization.

In addition to his military service, Henry dedicated his time to community service, notably volunteering for the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry, reflecting his generous spirit and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Henry was an avid sports fan and athlete. He found joy on the field, on the lanes, and on the course, spending many years playing baseball, softball, bowling, and golf—passions that brought him friendship, competition, and countless memories.

As we remember Henry, we honor his sacrifices, his love for his family, and his commitment to his community and country. He will be greatly missed and will be remembered for his strength, dry humor, sharp wit, and the legacy of love he leaves behind in those who knew him best.

View Henry "Gonzie" Gonzales's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.