Roger Michael Schiavoni

March 25, 1949 – October 13, 2026

Roger Schiavoni, 77, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, passed away on October 13, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, remarkable adventures and a family of whom he was immensely proud.

Born in Chicago on March 25, 1949, to the late Louis and Nellie Schiavoni, Roger attended St. Priscilla Grammar School and Weber High School before continuing his education at the University of Illinois. He went on to have a 46-year career as an electrical engineer with Sargent & Lundy in Chicago, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues. Even in retirement, he continued to bring former coworkers together, organizing gatherings for Sargent & Lundy retirees.

Roger was a hardworking, resourceful man who always had a project underway. Whether he was building, repairing, gardening, or tinkering with something around the house, he firmly believed that if he could do it himself, there was no reason to pay someone else to do it. Retirement certainly didn't slow him down. He generously gave his time as a volunteer tax preparer and election judge, continuing a lifelong commitment to staying active and contributing to his community.

Roger had a wide range of interests. He loved playing ice hockey, going boating, model railroading, traveling, camping and gardening. He made homemade pickles, crushed red pepper flakes and baked his own bread, all of which he happily shared with the family.

A loyal Chicago sports fan, he enthusiastically followed the Blackhawks, Bears, and White Sox along with the Fighting Illini football and basketball teams. But while watching the games, Roger had to make sure not to cheer (or boo) too loudly, as to not wake Pickles or Fiona, his two cats, that were undoubtedly lying on his lap.

Together with his wife Pat, Roger explored the world, visiting all 50 states and all seven continents—an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to their shared spirit of adventure. Yet for all the places he traveled, his greatest joy was always found with his family.

Roger had his own special ways of making family gatherings memorable. After holiday dinners, he enjoyed mixing piña coladas for everyone, and when something met his approval, he would declare it "ducky"—a favorite expression that will undoubtedly bring smiles to those who knew him. He loved playing "Pizza Party" with his grandchildren, and the little ones knew they could always count on a big hug from Grandpa's "car crusher."

Above all, Roger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Pat shared 56 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, friendship, and adventure. Nothing brought him greater pride than the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. His dedication to his family, strong work ethic, independent spirit, and love of life will remain an enduring example to those he leaves behind.

Roger is survived by his wife Pat; his children, Roger Schiavoni, Gina (Matt) Kraus, Laura Schiavoni (Brian Willard), Jeff (Jennifer) Schiavoni, and Val (Ken) Robinson; his grandchildren, Alexandra, Savannah, Cameron, and Gabi Schiavoni; Harley and Taylor Faustrum; Tristan, Lily, and Sophie Willard; and Jackie, Dom, and Pearl Schiavoni; and his great-grandson, Auggie Smith. He is also survived by his niece, Karoline (Mike) Sigler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Nellie Schiavoni, and his siblings, Robert and Annette.

Roger lived a full and remarkable life, filled with hard work, curiosity, adventure, and love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Services

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.

A Funeral Mass will follow at noon at St. James Parish, 831 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, with burial at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery, 1185 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL 60067.

Family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Maggiano's Little Italy, 1901 Woodfield Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173, at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Roger’s memory to October Saves, a hockey-related charitable fundraising initiative, supporting cancer research and patient care services:

https://charity.pledgeit.org/OctoberSavesHockey/@DomSchiavoni