Raquel Alvarez

She was the devoted mother of Orlando (Lury), Carlos (Paula) and Raquel (Patrick). She was a beloved grandmother to her 5 grandchildren, Cate (Sam), Michael, Madeleine, Patrick and Lily. She is survived by her brother Daniel and sister Dolores. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Antonio del Campo, and her other 6 brothers and sisters, Manolo, Ezequiel, Carlos, Isabel, Adelaida, and Bitia. She was born in Sagua La Grande Cuba on November 23, 1928 to Adelaida Alvarez Santalis and the Reverend Manuel Alvarez, both predeceased.

She was a groundbreaking woman, entering medical school in Havana when few women had that choice and graduated with her medical degree from University of Havana in 1953.

She left Cuba in 1970, restarting her life in the US at the age of 42, leaving everything behind and settling in Chicago, Illinois. After becoming board certified as a diplomate in family practice she spent her career working with under privileged patients. She cared deeply about her patients, saving many lives and was revered by both her patients and family. She was a member of the Chicago Medical Society, where she became president of the Northwest Chapter in 1997, as well as president of the medical staff at St. Elizabeth Hospital in 1992. She was also a proud and active member of the Cuban Medical Society in Exile.

Despite her busy schedule, she always had time for her loving family. She was a doting grandmother who enjoyed indulging her grandchildren. She never missed a dance recital or baseball game and loved to cheer them on. She was a role model for all of them.

She leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and dedication to family and God. She is now our angel in heaven who will be forever missed and never forgotten.