Gennady Chizhevsky

Gennady “Gene” Chizhevsky, 65, of Northbrook, Illinois, passed away on March 15th, 2024, surrounded by his family. Gene emanated warmth and kindness in all that he did, living his life so that everyone that he loved always knew it without question. He was a light for his family, friends and anyone that knew him.

Gene was born in Kiev, Ukraine, before traveling through Europe, and eventually settling into Skokie, Illinois. Gene was a gardener, fisherman, fixer and builder of all things, world-traveler and grill-master. He had a warm smile, an infectious laugh and a great sense of humor. Most of all, Gene loved. He stayed connected with friends from childhood, and family both near and far, which is indicative of what was most important to him.

Gene was the beloved son of Mikhail Chizhevsky and Ella Chizhevskaya, and son-in law of Mikhail and Anna Polyak; he was the devoted husband of Inna, having celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary last November; he was the proud and loving father of Rusty (Marlee) and Michael (Mariya); and he was the adoring “Papa” of Halle and Zoe, whom he called “his life.” Gene kept close relationships with cousins, both the ones nearby and the ones far away. Gene also loved his grand doggies Wrigley and Z, grand cat Q and his birds.

Just as Gene’s love was felt far and wide, so is his absence. He will always be remembered as a devoted son, loving husband, wonderful father, doting grandfather, and loyal friend. He will continue to live on through his family, and in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him. Though Gene’s memory will forever be a light that guides his loved ones, the world is still a little bit darker without him in it.

Funeral service Monday, March 18, 1:45 PM at Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home, 111 Skokie Blvd, Wilmette, IL 60091. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. Following the service, the family will have a meal of condolence at Zhivago Restaurant and Banquet.