Efren Ramos Esteban, 77, of Waukegan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, at Condell Medical Center, surrounded by his loving sons, Eric, Erwin, and Elmer.
Efren was born on January 20, 1949, in the Philippines, to Arsenio and Julieta Esteban. He later made his home in Waukegan, Illinois, where he built a life centered around family, hard work, and love. He worked at Abbott Laboratories for 32 years before retiring at the age of 61.
Efren was the beloved husband of Excelsa Esteban. Their love and life together remained an important part of who he was, and we find comfort in knowing that they are now reunited in Heaven.
He was a devoted father to his three sons, Eric, Erwin, and Elmer. While he loved his sons dearly, the love and joy he found in his grandchildren—Sophia, Mason, Emma, and Elsie—brought even more happiness into his life. Family was one of the greatest sources of pride and joy in his life.
Efren had a love for the simple pleasures in life. He especially enjoyed gardening, fishing, visiting the casino, playing poker, spending time outdoors, eating out and most of all, being surrounded by the people he loved. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that his family will cherish and carry with them forever. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Excelsa Esteban, in 2021.
Efren is survived by his children, Eric (Stephanie), Erwin, and Elmer (Emily); his grandchildren, Sophia, Mason, Emma, and Elsie; his brother, Eddie Esteban; and his sister, Angie Deveras.
Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering and is once again with his beloved wife, Excelsa. We imagine their beautiful reunion in Heaven and find peace in knowing that they are together again.
Dad, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Your love, your work ethic, your lessons, and the memories we shared will live on through your children, grandchildren, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.
Rest peacefully, Dad. We love you and will miss you forever.
Give Mom a hug for us. Until we meet again.
Wake & Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at Marsh Funeral Home, Gurnee, IL from 4 - 8pm, and again on Monday, October 12, 2026 from 10 -11am. Funeral service will at 11am at Marsh Funeral Home. Burial procession to follow after service at Ascension Cemetery
