Federico Cartagena Acosta

Federico "Fede" Cartagena Acosta, age 98, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on September 10, 2026. He is now reunited with his beloved wife of 60 years, the late Nelida Cartagena.

Over nearly a century of life, Fede carried a deep and lifelong love for his homeland of Puerto Rico, a vibrant spirit that he shared through his passion for Latin music. An avid enthusiast of history on wheels, he found immense joy in collecting antique parts and cars. Above all else, Fede was a proud man who loved nothing more than spending time with those he held dear.

He was the beloved father (papi) to Merrean Kolanowski; cherished grandpa Fred to Kenny Kolanowski and Lisa Tarr; devoted great-grandpa Fred to Amber Kolanowski, Ethan Kolanowski, Brooke Long, Gabriel Kolanowski, and Benjamin Kolanowski; and dear godfather to Edgar Burgos. He was also a dearest friend, cousin, and uncle to many.

Visitation: Friday, September 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL.

Interment: Will follow immediately at St. Adalbert Catholic Cemetery. For more information, please call (708) 456-8300