Benigno Fernandez

Beloved husband of the late Mary (nee Patton - Reilly). Loving father of Ines (Jim) Gerardi and Pete (Joanna) Fernandez. Beloved son of Manuela (nee Vazquez) and Toribio Fernandez. Proud papa to Joe (Allison Poole), Johnny (Kara), Nathan and Amelia. Dear brother to Alicia, Jesusa, Pedro and Ines. Fond uncle of many nieces and nephews here and abroad.

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved father, Benigno, the patriarch of our family. Benigno was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word. He lived an extraordinary life rooted in an adventurous spirit, fueled by bravery and an amazing work ethic.. From a very early age his dream was to move to America. Born in Entrimo, Spain, after the tragic passing of his mother as a baby, Benigno was raised by his older sisters. At an early age he left Spain to work with his father and brother in Portugal. It is here that his charm, personality and hard work led him to begin working in the restaurant industry. He quickly acquired a palate and understanding of fine foods and beverages. Benigno quickly became a knowledgeable and sought after waiter, working at the finest clubs in Lisbon. He then left Portugal to work in England. It is here that he met and fell in love with his wife, Mary, who he was happily married to for 41 years. Together they left England to go to Canada where Benigno was recruited to work at the Three Small Rooms. It was in Canada where they welcomed their first child, Ines (Cathy). Shortly after her birth Benigno's dream became a reality and he was asked to leave Canada to come work at the Mid America Club in Chicago. In his 30+ year career at the Mid America Club his hard work, determination and knowledge of fine dining allowed him to advance in his career. As he acclimated to life in America he and Mary welcomed their son , Peter and they moved to a house on Mason Avenue in the Jefferson Park neighborhood where they raised their family and created lasting memories for the next 40 Years.

Known by all those who met him as a gentleman, polished, kind who worked tirelessly for his family and was an exceptional cook. He shared his developed palate and appreciation for fine wine and joy of celebration with his family by hosting Sunday dinners. His door was always open and there was always room at his table for friends and family.

Visitation Monday, July 28, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL. Funeral services begin at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, at the funeral home, and will then proceed to St. Robert Bellarmine Church in Chicago for Mass at 10:00 a.m. The interment will follow at Maryhill Cemetery in Niles. For more information call (708)456-8300.