Name: Visitation for Martin Christopher "Marty" Gutilla
Start: 2018-05-01T20:00:00.000Z
End: 2018-05-02T01:00:00.000Z
Location: Cumberland Chapels

Gutilla, Martin Christopher Marty Gutilla passed away peacefully on April 23, 2018. The Chicago Herald-American newspaper declared him a "rule Yule doll," on his birthdate December 25, 1945 – making him famous from birth. Marty grew up on the northwest side of Chicago with his late parents, Sam and Rose Marie, and his brother Tony. He lived for his mom's homemade raviolis and meatballs eaten right out of the frying pan. Marty attended Taft High School and Northeastern college and enjoyed his first career as a teacher and assistant principal. After realizing he was better suited for the nightlife he opened his first bar in 1974 called the Little Green Bag on Milwaukee Ave. From there Marty went on to open such classics as BBC, Hotspurs, Jubilation (Las Vegas), Sweetwater and Eddie Rockets. When he opened Tavern on Rush, Marty helped to revitalize Rush Street. Tavern on Rush celebrated its 20 year anniversary in early April. This milestone, which few restaurants achieve, is attributed to Marty's vision and welcoming spirit. Marty's greatest and proudest achievement was his family. He will be deeply missed by his daughter Shauna (Ronnie) Kelley and his son Sam. His grandchildren Anna and Christopher Kelley will miss their Poppy's inappropriate stories. His devoted companion DeVona Whiting will miss him dearly. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge, IL 60706. Friends and family are asked to gather on Wednesday May 2, 2018 for the Mass of Christian Burial at Old St Patrick's Church, 700 West Adams, Chicago, IL 60661 at 10 a.m. Interment will be private. As much as Marty loves his flowers he would also appreciate donations made to Children at the Crossroads (www.catc.org) and Saint Ignatius College Prep (www.ignatius.org). Info 708-456-8300 or www.cumberlandchapels.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Apr. 29, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Martin Gutilla

18 Entries

Toni

April 20, 2025

Will always Thank your father for being so kind to me and my daughter. Loved him so much.

Phil Sipiora

February 28, 2019

I will always remember Marty for his generosity of spirit. He was never too busy to share time and kindness with family, friends, and often strangers. Marty was rare, like his brother Tony, and will be long remembered for his graciousness and love of life.

Toni Pellegrino

October 5, 2018

To Shauna. I am very sorry for your father. I often thought of him. Every time I went to tavern on rush I always asked about him. I saw him once abt 10 yrs ago.. It was nice seeing him. I often would dream of him. He was a important part of my life. I never finished high school and I was trying to prep for my GED . Well it was your father who helped me pass that test. He was a awesome person as well as a teacher. I truly loved him and I will always treasure my memories with your father. I will always remember how I took u to rainbow cone and we got lost. I hope u remember me also my daughter Sterling. She also passed away when she was17. A loss of a loved one stays with u always. It will take a lifetime to heal. But they are still with us in our hearts and thoughts. Stay strong and I pray for u and your family. Always have love for you and your father. Take care of yourself. Love Toni

Cecile Remillard Tremblay

May 7, 2018

Marty was my first boyfriend, when I was 15 years old at St. Tarcissus Catholic School. Somehow you never forget your 'first kiss'. Rest in peace, Marty.

David Lynn

May 4, 2018

You were one of a kind. When God made you he went over board. I only came to Tavern because I knew you were their. I' will miss you always Marty. Your friend David Lynn.

Janise Robinson

May 3, 2018

A gem. RIP my friend. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Linda Matlow

May 1, 2018

My condolences to Marty's family and all those that knew him. He will be missed.

Bill Rackos

May 1, 2018

As we all mourn the loss of a dear friend let us also be grateful that he was part of our lives for as long as he was and always remember him for who he was, a man's man, a stand up guy, and without equivocation, the best owner in the business. Bon Voyage Marty, thanks for the memories your places gave us. God rest your soul and may your memory be eternal.

Jeremiah 29:12,13

April 30, 2018

My condolences to the family,for the loss you must be feeling for your beloved one . How tragic to lose someone so loved and dear to you. May your family find comfort in prayer and in one another.

Baron Bruner

April 30, 2018

A great guy with a great brother

Joe Barbaria

April 30, 2018

Now you have your best Tavern ; HEAVEN!!!

April 29, 2018

We will miss you Marty. RIP
Shari & Jerry Michaels

Marilyn&Joey Sarllo

April 29, 2018

RIP to a dear, sweet man. I knew him through my brother, Joey of course, and his Friday night dinners at Tavern. He was kind to my mom who enjoyed going there and was treated like the queen she was. Anyway, we will be at the wake. Marty you will be missed by all who came to know you. You did good!

The Staff of Cumberland Chapels

April 29, 2018

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Charlene Gould

April 27, 2018

Marty was one of the best...went to high school with him...he helped me when I need help...he is part of my history!
Char

Manny Puente

April 27, 2018

My heart goes out to the Gutilla family.
Marty made an inpact in my life growing up!
Brodened my horizons!
I remeber Marty and always will!
Love you Marty! May the lord bless your soul!

Mel & Christan Davis

April 27, 2018

May the love of friends and family carry you to The Spirit and Soul of our God Almighty

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