Dr. Ester B. Perona

A devoted mother, loving aunt, and respected physician who touched the lives of many, passed away on December 18, 2024 at the age of 85 in her home in Henderson, Nevada. Ester's life was defined by her compassion, dedication, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and patients.

Born on July 4th, 1939 in Nangka, Tanjay, from the Province of Negros Oriental, Philippines, Ester was the youngest of the ten children of Arcadio and Rosenda Buquiran. From a young age, she excelled in her education and eventually earned her MD from Far Eastern University (FEU) in 1964.

Following medical school, she traveled to Chicago to complete her residency. After her residency, she remained in the USA to practice medicine and worked in various hospitals. While working at Grant hospital, she met her husband and life partner, Dr. Edgardo Perona. She retired in 2001 from Chicago Reed Health Center after serving 20+ years as a staff physician. There, she touched countless lives, provided care with exceptional skill, and demonstrated a genuine commitment to the well-being of her patients. She will be remembered as a compassionate and selfless doctor who always placed the needs of others first.

Ester’s greatest joy was her family and faith. She was a devout Catholic, and prayer and devotion were an integral part of her everyday life. She was a devoted mother who instilled in her son, Gerry, the values of love, kindness, and family. She was also a beloved aunt, forming deep bonds with her nieces and nephews and playing an important role in their lives.

Ester cherished family and friends gatherings, always hosting Christmas Eve at her home in Park Ridge, and found happiness in creating memories with those she loved. Additionally, Ester was deeply passionate about education and was steadfast in her commitment to supporting her family’s success. She championed educational opportunities and provided tuition assistance to numerous nieces and nephews to encourage them to pursue their dreams and complete their education. Her encouragement and support left an indelible mark on their lives, inspiring them to strive for excellence and fulfill their potential.

Ester was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ed, with whom she shared a profound love and enduring partnership. After meeting at work in Grant Hospital, they married in 1969. Shortly after, they took residence in Park Ridge. They spent their lives building a foundation rooted in family, community, and shared values. Together, they cultivated a legacy defined by enduring devotion—to each other, to their family, and to the countless patients whose lives they touched with care and compassion.

Outside of her professional life, and role as family matriarch, Ester found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid golfer, a spirited mahjong enthusiast, and an active participant in alumni activities with her fellow graduates of FEU. Her devout Catholic faith inspired her to engage in numerous missionary and charitable programs, where she extended her kindness to those in need. Ester approached life with warmth, humility, and a presence that brought comfort and happiness to everyone she encountered.

Ester is survived by her son, Gerald, her siblings, Balbino and Felicisima Buquiran, as well as her extended family, including nieces and nephews, Teresa Wulff, Berna Rice, and Ademar Gabas who helped care for her towards the end of her life in Nevada. She is also lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends whose lives she profoundly touched.

Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church (8300 N. Greenwood Ave. Niles, IL). A graveside service will follow immediately after at All Saints Catholic Cemetery (700 N. River Road Des Plaines.)

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Ester may be made to the American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org)

Condolences and fond memories of Ester can be shared at OehlerFuneralHome.com