Franco Laghi Obituary
Franco lived a full life. He was born in Lima, Peru on August 19, 1960 to Bruna Ravaglia and the late Franco Laghi. He spent his childhood in the Andes Mountains where he demonstrated a love for learning under the tutelage of his mother who was a teacher at the local school. His mother noted his remarkably compassionate nature at a young age as he was often found giving away his shoes to local children in need.
As a teenager, he returned with his family to Italy, where he completed high school in Lugo in the Province of Ravenna, and medical school at the Catholic University of Rome. He moved to the United States to train as a practicing physician in New York State and Maryland before settling in Chicago, Illinois where he built his career and family.
Franco Laghi dedicated his career spanning over 30 years to caring for patients who were critically ill at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital and Loyola University Medical Center. He was a physician-scientist and a leading expert in the field of respiratory muscle physiology. He applied his vast knowledge to caring for patients with neuromuscular disease, particularly ALS. He mentored hundreds of students and junior physicians in addition to guiding his own children into academia. He always instilled a sense of purpose in those he taught to not only strive for success but also maintain compassion and empathy for patients and their families.
A lover of the arts he shared his admiration for classical music and literature with family and friends.
Franco is survived by his wife Nausica; children, Franco (Jr.), Marco, and Julia; his daughter-in-law Krystina; his grandson, Franco ("Franchino"); his mother Bruna; and his sister Fulvia.
A visitation will be held Friday, December 19, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 PM at Hallowell and James in Countryside, IL.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 12:30pm at St. Cletus Church in La Grange, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Franco's memory to Doctors Without Borders.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kimberly Spivey
January 18, 2026
I recently learned of the passing of Dr. Laghi during my visit to Hines. My sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. Dr. Laghi had been my pulmonologist since 2007, and he was one of the most consistent and dedicated physicians at Hines. His compassion and commitment were evident in every interaction. He will be deeply missed.
Ms. Kimberly Spivey
Rania Abdallah
December 22, 2025
I am deeply saddened to hear about Dr. Laghi´s passing away. He was an incredible physician, mentor, and teacher, but above all, an extraordinary human being. It was the privilege of a lifetime to work with him for three years during my training; though it was over a decade ago, his influence remains with me. My only regret is not having the chance to see him once more before his passing
James Prister
December 19, 2025
It was a privilege and honor to work with Franco over the last 25 years at RML. He was an extraordinary physician, researcher and teacher. Truly one of the leaders in the field of respiratory care. He will be sorely missed.
Jim Prister
RML Specialty Hospitals
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stefano nava
December 18, 2025
Ciao Franco, extraordinary scientist, friend and most important good and honest person. Sit tibi terra levis
Paolo Palange
December 18, 2025
Riposa in pace caro Franco.
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