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 Esther (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 the dear brother of 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 also 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. A hardworking man, he dedicated 33 years to the Albin Carlson Company before retiring in 1998.
Refugio had a lifelong passion for airplanes, inspired by watching crop planes fly over the fields in Texas as a child. He enjoyed taking his children to airplane museums and exhibits, sharing his enthusiasm with them. He was also a fan of country and soft-listening music, often playing his extensive collection on weekends as a way to relax.
More than anything, Refugio was a role model—a devoted husband and father whose kindness, loyalty, and love for his family and friends knew no bounds. He lived selflessly, always there for others in the most thoughtful and generous ways. He instilled in his children the values of hard work, fairness, integrity, honesty, and generosity—qualities they will carry forward for generations.
A visitation was held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at Foran Funeral Home. Family and friends gathered on Tuesday at St. Procopius Church for visitation before a funeral Mass. A procession followed to Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, where Refugio was laid to rest.
Well done, good and faithful servant. May you rest in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.
Condolences may be sent to Refugio’s family on his personal tribute website at www.foranfuneralhome.com.
The post Refugio Fraga appeared first on Southwest Regional Publishing.