Carmen T. Cossyleon

Carmen Teresa Cossyleon passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2020, on her youngest granddaughter’s first birthday. She was born on February 15, 1958, in Chicago, IL the daughter of Jose Martinez and Adela Soto. She was married for 16 years with Heriberto Varela Sr. and together they had three children. She divorced and later married Rogelio Cossyleon.

Carmen T. Cossyleon passed away while on Hospice at Advocate Illinois Masonic Hospital surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at the age of 61. Carmen is predeceased by Jose Martinez/Father, Adela Soto/Mother, Joseph Martinez/Brother, Christina Marie Arzuaga/Granddaughter.

Carmen is survived by her loving husband of 30 years. They were married in Chicago, IL on September 5, 1995. Carmen is lovingly remembered by her three children, Heriberto Varela Jr., Marilyn Herrera, and Ines Cirilo; Jackie Varela (daughter-in-law), Artie J. Hibler (son-in-law), Angel E. Cirilo (son-in-law), thirteen grandchildren, Eddie Aniva, Abigail B. Herrera, Heriberto Jovani Varela, Aletsy Marie Herrera, Immanuel Varela, Adamaris Varela, Mirelys Varela, Josines Martinez, Adrian Varela, Eliot A. Cirilo, Antonio Varela, Nayeli Hope Cirilo, Eliana Faith Cirilo; three siblings, Edwin Martinez, Rose Mary Medina, Antonia Martinez; and many nieces and nephews.

Carmen was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 15, 1958. Carmen and her siblings were also raised in Angel Guardian Orphanage. Before becoming disabled, Carmen worked as a housekeeper. Afterward, she volunteered at a nursing home for the elderly. Everyone knew Carmen by her love of hobbies, she sewed her children's clothes, she loved to bake, cook, crochet, make silk flower arrangements, paint, interior design, decorate professional cakes and mostly she loved to garden. Carmen also had a heart for helping others which also included opening up her home to those in need. She had a love for animals specifically dogs. She did not allow her physical handicap to limit her from still doing some things that she loved. She created her youngest daughter's wedding flower arrangement, baby shower favors, and made baby blankets. She was unstoppable! She loved to dance, listen to music, watch novelas, listen to current events (bochince), drink cafe, and unfortunately, she loved to have her smokes.

The visitation will be held at Montclair-Lucania Funeral Home, 6901 W Belmont Ave on January 27, 2020, at 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM. The mass of Christian burial) will be held at St. Sylvester Church, 2157 N Humbolth Blvd on January 28, 2020, at 9:00 AM with Rev. Samson N. Mukundi officiating. Interment to follow at Elmwood Cemetery & Mausoleum, 2905 N. Thatcher Ave at 1:00 PM. Condolences for the family may be offered online at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/chicago-il/carmen-cossyleon-9011224