Emilio Vitucci

Visitation Date: Friday, January 22, 2021
Visitation Time: 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.
Funeral Date: Saturday, January 23rd, 2021
Funeral Time: 10:30 am
Place of Funeral: Chapel Service at Salerno's Rosedale Chapels
Funeral Notes: During visiting hours, it is still recommended to follow the State of Illinois guidelines limiting gathering and guests should continue to wear masks and practice social distancing.
Interment: Mount Carmel Cemetery

Emilo “Chickie” Vitucci; Beloved husband of the late Lena nee: Avena; Devoted father of Christine (Kurt) Vitucci-Schneider and Frank Vitucci; Loving son of the late Frank Sr and Rose; Dear brother of the late Dr. Dominic (Valerie), Rocco (Lola), Frank Jr. “Dodo” and the late Joseph (Carole) Vitucci; Adored Papa of Ethan Michael and Brandon Emilio Schneider; Dear uncle and great uncle of many.
On Tuesday, January 19, our beloved father passed away. Emilio Vitucci was born May 4, 1934 in Chicago to loving parents Frank and Rose, and was one of five boys. His first job was at Romano’s Drug Store where he worked as a soda jerk at the age the age of 12; something we benefited from…he made the best banana splits and black cows! His family’s work ethic was instilled in him and he carried it throughout his life. The product of Italian immigrants, his grandfathers worked tirelessly to provide for their family. His father borrowed money to start his business, Vitucci Funeral Home. The chapel was on the bottom of a three flat building where the family lived. The business remained until his youngest (late) brother Joe’s retirement several years ago. Emilio acquired his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois @ Navy Pier, and went on to earn his law degree from the University of Illinois @ Urbana-Champaign. Emilio began working for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in 1959 and then was drafted into the army where he honorably served from 1958-1960. Once discharged, he resumed his job at HUD where he met the love of his life, Lena. Lena was his secretary and took and immediate liking to Emilio, but it took a little effort on Lena’s part to get the relationship started. Once they started dating, however, it was a match made in Heaven. They were married in 1970, built a house in Des Plaines, and had their two children. Emilio was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations, notably for his work on American Indian programs for the U.S. Government. He also received a merit award during his short time in the army. Throughout his life, Emilio had been blessed with family and friends who adored him, and whom he adored. Emilio was a recreational (amazing) cook and was known for his “cous beef” and “Emil’s chicken”. In addition to all the Italian recipes he modified and made his own, he also made jelly from grapes his best friend Joe Pentimone harvested and even after Joe’s death, would make jelly for Joe’s family. Many of Emilio’s cooking creations are still talked about today. When Emilio retired in 1992 as Regional Counsel from HUD, at the ripe age of 58, he and Lena spent a lot more time together. He also spent time at the library (reading & completing the most difficult crossword puzzles), and also bargain grocery shopping, a few of his favorite pass times…we think this may have saved their marriage! One thing Emilio and Lena did together once he retired, was create a new biscotti recipe, modified from a friend’s traditional recipe. They would bake them together at Christmas time, and dye them red and green. They were enjoyed by many. Emilio’s world came crashing down when his beloved Lena was diagnosed with kidney cancer in August 2001. Without any symptoms or warning, Lena was given a terminal diagnosis. Through her unbelievable strength, strong faith, and will to live, (especially to spend more time with her then one year old and unborn grandsons), she defied the odds and lived several more years with the loving care of Emilio. After fighting hard for three years, enduring numerous surgeries and treatments, she passed in September of 2004. Emilio’s heart was broken, but his self-proclaimed saving grace were his two grandsons, Ethan and Brandon who became the light of his life. We have heard many stories about Emilio, in recent years, about him from his youth. He was very strong willed, but also caring and loving. He didn’t have a large circle of friends, but the family and friends he had brought joy to his life. Everyone who had the honor of knowing Emilio surely feels his loss. He was a man of integrity, principles, and great generosity and instilled those traits in his children and subsequently in his grandchildren. Great comfort is felt knowing he has been reunited with his beloved Lena for all of eternity. Until we meet again Papa…
-C & F