Francis Catuara Obituary

Francis "Frank" Robert Catuara
Died: February 21, 2025
Francis "Frank" Robert Catuara, age 90, of LaGrange, departed this world peacefully on February 21, 2025.
Frank was a devoted husband to Vera V. Catuara for sixty years and loving father to Julia, Keith (Debbie), and Michael, all who love him very much. A proud grandfather to Nicholas; a cherished uncle to Beth (David) Sulfridge, Carol (Greg) Skinner, the late Cathy Evans, Raymond "Chip" Evans III, Scott Evans, Kyle (Sharon) Gross, & the late Darcy Gross; great-uncle, cousin, & friend to many.
Born and raised in Chicago, Frank was the son of John and Rose Catuara (both of Sant' Angelo Muxaro, Sicily) and dear brother to Joseph who Frank cared for deeply. He grew up surrounded by his many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins, with Dick Circo being like a second brother. Family picnics, holiday parties, and gatherings were among the cherished events he always looked forward to attending.
He served in Germany during the Korean War responsible for communication systems requiring special clearance. He earned the distinction of expert marksmanship during his training.
His career as a Mechanical Project Engineer took him around the globe, reaching destinations such as Hong Kong, Argentina, China, the Philippines, and Indonesia (where he was proud to have his family join him). He worked in a variety of industries including farm equipment, dredging, nuclear and coal power plants, and quarrying during his early "retirement" years.
An accomplished pianist beginning in childhood, he continued playing his entire life even into his final weeks. He delighted family, friends, and even unsuspecting audiences with impromptu performances whenever a piano was available. He had a diverse repertoire that spanned multiple genres and styles from classical to standards, lively jazz tunes and contemporary hits. Some of his favorites included The Entertainer, Sentimental Journey, and Satin Dolls.
Frank was a devoted father who actively participated in his children's lives by attending their many music events, coaching and playing baseball, cub scout trips, and taking the family on adventures such as stomping in the woods, canoeing, fishing, and camping. In retirement, Frank and Vera traveled by motorhome to see their children on both the East and West Coasts, where he enjoyed sailing with Julia and spending winters in the warm western climate. With his wit and charm Frank made friends easily during their travels and became a beloved member of their children's extended families.
Though he traveled widely, there was one place he loved most – his home. He proudly created a comfortable home for Vera and the children engaging in numerous projects over the years, including a grape arbor in the backyard, garden boxes and trellises for Vera's gardens, a handyman's garage, custom work inside the house, carvings, clocks and lamps; everywhere you look, you can see his handiwork – which can also be found in the homes of his children. When not working on a project, Frank loved to "walk around the farm", sleep beneath his backyard trees, or sit on the front porch to watch "the race go by".
Frank and his family are forever grateful for the support of visiting family and friends during his time in hospice and for the dedicated, loving care and companionship provided by the staff, fellow veterans, and volunteers at the Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital and Community Living Center (CLC) – angels one and all.
Visitation is Thursday, February 27th, 5-8pm, at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside; Funeral Mass is Friday, February 28th, 10am, at St. Cletus Parish, 600 W 55th Street, LaGrange; Reception follows immediately, at a LaGrange restaurant to be announced on Friday; and interment ceremony at 2:30pm at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL. Please meet at the cemetery office. Additional information: 708-352-6500