Rodolfo Peña

Rodolfo “Rudy” Pena was born on November 26, 1955, to Delia Rojas and Miguel Pena. He grew up in Juncos, Puerto Rico, where he embraced his deep love of cooking over a wood stove in the Boricua Traditions. The oldest of six siblings, his three brothers, and two sisters looked to him for guidance that continued into adulthood as he took care of those around him. His family could always count on him for his kindness, generosity, huge heart, brutal honesty, and passion for cars.

Rudy moved to Chicago in his early teens and began working as a fence maker with his good friend David Bloom, a partnership that lasted until the end. When he wasn’t working, he could be found repairing/modifying classic cars, fishing, and, most importantly, spending time with his family.

On December 7, 1989, he met the love of his life, Susan Ocasio, and they embarked on a future together, raising three children, Carmela Pena, Ramiro Reyes, and Michael Reyes. Their family expanded over the years to include six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Those who knew Rudy knew that he delighted in whipping up a delicious home-cooked Puerto Rican meal for you in minutes which would always include his famous “Rudy Rice”! He had abundant love to give and often would not eat himself until everyone else was stuffed and could barely breathe!

Rudy, you will always live in our hearts and minds till we embrace again!

The Celebration of Life for Rodolfo “Rudy” Pena will be held on Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 4:30 PM, at Christian Funeral Home, located at 3100 W. Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL. 60618. Interment to follow on Monday the 6th, 11:30 AM to 1 PM where he will be laid to rest at Montrose Cemetery, 5400 N. Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL. 60630.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.

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