Elizabeth "Liza" F. Buñag

Elizabeth F. Buñag, affectionately known as Liza, left this world on July 6, 2025, at St. Alexius Hospital, surrounded by the warmth of love that she so effortlessly shared throughout her life. Born on August 5, 1958, in the Philippines, Liza’s journey led her to become not just a devoted nurse, but a guiding light for many who had the privilege of knowing her.

Liza earned a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, a testament to her dedication to her craft. For 20 dedicated years, Liza served as a nurse at Norwegian American Hospital in the ICU/Telemetry and Same Day Surgery departments. Her unwavering commitment to her patients was a hallmark of her career. After her time there, she transferred to Glenoaks Hospital, where she spent another two decades overseeing the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Liza approached each day with a patient smile, demonstrating a sweet demeanor that never waned, regardless of the complexities her work demanded. Her compassion was palpable; she touched hearts and made a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues alike.

Beyond her remarkable career, Liza's greatest joy stemmed from the time spent with her family and friends, especially during cherished holidays and birthdays. Memories of laughter, celebrations, and the bonds she nurtured will forever be etched in the hearts of those who loved her. Liza’s generosity, love, and positivity radiated not only through her profession but also in her personal life. She faced life’s challenges, including her own health battles, with a smile that could uplift anyone. Even after encountering difficulties, she remained a source of inspiration for those around her, proving that a loving spirit can triumph against the odds.

In her leisure time, Liza found joy in simple pleasures. She enjoyed traveling, dining out, and indulging in her love for reading, particularly romantic novels, stories by James Patterson, and the latest issues of People magazine. Her hobbies included online shopping and scrolling through Facebook, where she connected with loved ones. A lover of baking, she found joy in creating sweet treats while humorously admitting her disdain for cooking. Liza adored action movies, often cozying up to watch her favorite show, Law and Order: SVU.

Liza leaves behind her beloved family: her daughter Melissa (Aissa), son-in-law Jason, and precious grandson Caden. She is also survived by her son Rafael (RB) and her cherished brothers, Jomel Fuentes, Marlon Fuentes, and Mike Fuentes. Although she is gone, she is preceded in death by her father, Orlando Fuentes, mother, Mercedes Fuentes, brother Orlando Fuentes Jr., and sister-in-law Amy Fuentes.

Liza's visitation will take place on July 13, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels in Roselle, IL, followed by a service on July 14, beginning at 9:30 AM. A Mass will be held at St. Isidore Parish in Bloomingdale, IL at 10:45 AM.

As we bid farewell to Liza, we remember her not just as a nurse, but as a loving mother, sister, and friend whose spirit will forever shine brightly in the memories of those she adored. Though she may be gone from our sight, her heart will remain in our lives, a reminder of the profound and beautiful impact she made.