Leo Waldmeier

Leo Waldmeier was a proud Swiss citizen, a beloved husband, father, opa, and a celebrated chef. He was born and raised in Hellikon, Canton Aargau, Switzerland, alongside his four brothers. Though Leo began working and traveling internationally at a young age, he always carried the spirit of his homeland with him - its beautiful landscapes, traditions, and culture were never far from his mind and were forever in his heart.

Leo was a man of many talents, with a wonderful sense of humor and remarkable charisma. He passed away after a long illness on March 13, 2026. He was 81.

Leo’s love of food, hospitality, and the joy of sharing it began at the side of his mother, Trudi. She first showed him how preparing delicious food could bring people together, and that early inspiration set him on a culinary path at the age of 15. His talent and dedication led him from his rural beginnings to apprenticeships in many of the finest hotels in Switzerland, followed by a forty-year career with Hilton International. He worked in London, Istanbul, Puerto Rico, Curaçao, and Singapore - experiences that broadened his culinary skills and deepened his appreciation for new cultures. Ultimately, his journey brought him to Chicago, where he served as Executive Chef of The Drake Hotel for 26 years, earning the respect and affection of colleagues and guests alike.

It was in Chicago, at a new employee meeting, that Leo met Karen, a Canadian who transferred from Toronto to Chicago when Hilton International assumed management of The Drake in 1981. They married two years later in Hellikon and built their life together in Chicago, raising two daughters, Cynthia and Rosemary.

While Leo loved Chicago and its vibrant food scene, he most cherished time in nature -hunting, fly fishing, and walking outdoors whenever he could. He especially looked forward to time spent at Lac Manitou in the Laurentians of Quebec, where Karen’s parents lived. There he delighted in fishing for perch, foraging for chanterelles, and sharing his catch and wild mushrooms with family and friends. Leo returned to Switzerland every November to join his brothers for the traditional hunt, reconnecting with his roots.

Leo’s quick wit, generous spirit, and vibrant personality endeared him to all who knew him. He was a beloved friend and mentor to many around the world. Leo is survived by his wife, Karen; his daughters, Cynthia and Rosemary; their husbands, Dan Robinson and Darryl Smith; and his grandchildren, Leo and Remy Robinson, and Cecelia and Louisa Smith. He will be remembered by friends, colleagues, and extended family across continents.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Leo’s memory to Meals on Wheels Chicago or the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab would be greatly appreciated. His family is deeply grateful to the staff at Artis Senior Living of Lakeview for their kindness, care, and support over the past several months.