Pilar Arreola, a longtime South Side Chicago resident and native of Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico, died peacefully at home on Jan. 22, 2025, surrounded by family, after a long illness against which she defied the odds for many years.
Pilar will be remembered by her large extended family and friends for her love and acceptance, her warm heart and bright smile, generosity, and big personality. She was known for her impeccable sense of style, often “dressed to the nines” even for housework and cooking. She delighted those around her by breaking into song and dance at a moment’s notice.
A talented cook, Pilar was famous for many dishes, including her mole poblano, perfectly balanced with savory, spice and sweet, as well as her potato salad. She had a gift for creating delicious meals from whatever she had available. Her strength and fighting spirit in the face of illness and loss were evident throughout her life. As the matriarch of her loving family, she will be greatly missed.
Pilar is survived by her daughter, Irma (Lisa); her son, Adolfo (Mica); her grandchildren, Gilbert, William, Lorraina, Rosaleina and Abella; and her great-grandchildren, Ariana, Amina and Mateo. She is also survived by her sister, Maria Elena; her brother, Noel; and a large group of nieces and nephews who considered her their second mother, including Olaf, Orlando (Anna), Moises, Cynthia and Jason. She is also survived by her close friend and companion, Silvino/Silvi.
Visitation was held Jan. 24 at Szykowny Funeral Home, 4901 S. Archer Ave., with Jonathan Siedlecki, owner and director. A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 25 at St. Rita of Cascia Church, 6243 S. Fairfield. Interment followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Evergreen Park.
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