Roger A. Villalba M.D.

Roger A. Villalba peacefully entered eternal life on June 6, 2025 at home, lovingly surrounded by family.

Born in Sampues Colombia on April 26, 1933, Roger was a dedicated physician who recognized the importance of education, perseverance, the power of a positive mindset, and trust in the Lord to meet all of life's challenges.

Roger accompanied the town physician and his church's pastor on sick calls while growing up, and these experiences inspired his desire to become a doctor. For various reasons, however, this seemed to be an impossible dream. He decided to become an educator. One day in the classroom with unruly boys made him realize that God had planted in his heart his true professional vocation, and that somehow he would find a way to become a physician. In a story filled with too many "coincidences" to count, Roger graduated from the University of Cartagena Medical School with Honors in 1963.

While traveling through the mountains of Antioquia for work, Roger met his beautiful wife, Martha. They married in 1965 and within a few years emigrated to the United States with their two young sons to complete residency in Urology at the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Roger was a compassionate and sought-after physician in Chicago, practicing medicine for almost 50 years. This included work mainly on Chicago's Near West side, on medical missions in Latin America and lecturing at academic conferences. He was beloved by his patients and highly regarded by peers. He wholeheartedly embraced the many dimensions of his work, from being a surgeon on call 24/7 in a solo practice to serving as a counselor and advisor for patients who valued his practical wisdom and caring attitude.

Known for his generosity and warm smile, Roger was also appreciated for his sense of humor and talents as a storyteller. He was a voracious reader, and his love of history and sense of adventure inspired the family's annual summer road trips across the US. Maps were considered optional, and no small town attraction was seen as too small to stop and learn something new.

Roger shared his love of learning and hard work by extending educational and professional opportunities to so many. He also enthusiastically supported Martha's charitable endeavors, and friends recall the lively fundraisers held at their home. His children are forever grateful for his generosity in sponsoring many pool parties, as well.

Roger was the beloved husband of Martha Ramirez Villalba; loving father of Alfonso (Barbra), Roger F. (Jennifer), Martha L., and Olga (Javier). He cherished his role as Abuelo/Lito to Dominic, Madeline, Lucas, John Paul, Marcus, Xavier, Zara, Elizabeth, and Olivia. He was a caring uncle to eighty nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Efrain and Ninfa, and his nine brothers.

On Saturday June 14 2025 visitation will be held at St Norbert Catholic Church, 1809 Walters Avenue in Northbrook at 9:15 AM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Mass will be viewable via livestream at https://youtube.com/live/KfSHzIvV8r4?feature=share.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations be sent to The Women's Center of Greater Chicagoland (gotwc.org) or Aid for Women (https://helpaidforwomen.org).