Pilar Arreola

Pilar Arreola, a long-time south-side Chicago resident and native of Morelia Michoacan, Mexico died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on January 22, 2025, after a long illness against which she beat the odds for many years. She will be remembered by her large extended family and friends for her love and acceptance, her heart and smile, generosity, and big personality. Pilar was known for her sense of style, "dressed to the nines" even for housework and cooking. She delighted those around her by breaking into song and dance at the drop of a hat. Pilar was an excellent cook and famous for many dishes, including mole poblano with just the right balance of savory, spice and sweet, her potato salad, and for whipping up a meal out of whatever she had available. Her strength and fighting spirt, in the face of illness and loss, was evident her entire life. Pilar was the matriarch of her loving family and she will be greatly missed. She is survived by her daughter Irma (Lisa), son Adolfo (Mica), grandchildren Gilbert, William, Lorraina, Rosaleina, and Abella; great grandchildren Ariana, Amina, Mateo; her sister Maria Elena and brother Noel, and a large cadre of nephews and nieces who referred to her as their second mom, including Olaf, Orlando (Anna), Moises, Cynthia, and Jason; and by her close friend and companion, Silvino/Silvi.