Refugio Fraga

Refugio Fraga passed away peacefully on Monday, March 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was married for 65 years to the love of his life, Teresa Tamayo, and their marriage was an inspiration to all who knew them. A devoted father, he is survived by his children: Herman (Maria) Fraga, Jose Jesus “Chuy” (Maggie) Fraga, Ricardo Fraga, Norman (Rick Portillo) Fraga, the late Alicia, Alicia Ester (Jose “Ito”) Baltazar, and David (Luremny) Fraga. He was a cherished grandfather to Joel, Noelia, Jessica, Alejandro “Alex,” Adriana, Gabriella “Gaby,” Sophia, Vidany, and Merad, and a beloved great-grandfather to Aleck, Nia, and two little ones on the way. Refugio was a dear brother to Gabino, Paulino, Antonio, Porfiria, Francisco, and Beto. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francisco and Nazaria, as well as his siblings, Lupe, Taide, Alejo, Damian, and Felipa. He was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. As the eldest of 12 siblings, Refugio took on the role of patriarch after his father’s passing. He generously sponsored and supported both his family and Teresa’s family when they moved from the Rio Grande Valley to Chicago, helping them find jobs and build new lives. Refugio was a hardworking man, he dedicated 33 years to the Albin Carlson Construction Company before retiring in 1998. Refugio had a lifelong passion for airplanes, dating back to his childhood when he watched crop planes fly over the fields in Texas. He loved taking his children to airplane museums and exhibits, inspiring them with his enthusiasm. He was also a big fan of country and soft-listening music, often playing his extensive country music collection on weekends as a way to relax. What greater compliment can one receive than to be a role model as a husband and father to his five sons and daughter? Refugio was a remarkable man whose kindness, loyalty, and love for his family and friends knew no bounds. He lived selflessly, always there for others in the most thoughtful, generous, and unassuming way. He instilled in his children the values of hard work, fairness, integrity, honesty, and generosity—qualities they will carry forward and pass on for generations. Refugio leaves behind a profound legacy, one that we were all blessed to witness. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 4 PM to 8 PM at Foran Funeral Home, 7300 W. Archer Ave. (55th Street, just west of Harlem). Family and friends will gather on Tuesday at St. Procopius Church for visitation from 9 AM until the time of Mass at 10 AM. A procession will follow to Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 7201 Archer Rd, where Refugio will be laid to rest. Well done, good and faithful servant. May you rest in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.

Refugio Fraga

July 4, 1936 - March 3, 2025