John C. Raffaelli

John C. Raffaelli (Caesar), age 83 of Palos Hills, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born November 15, 1940 to the late Egidio and Eni (Calissi) Raffaelli in Italy. Caesar came to the United States at age seven and graduated from Austin High School in 1958. His extreme love for baseball landed him an opportunity to play for the Chicago White Sox minor team in Clinton, Iowa during the 1962 season. He served in the US Army from 1963-1965, then continued his career as a proud union pipefitter with Local 597, for 38 years. 

Loving husband of Mary Ann (Sciacca) Raffaelli for 55 years, whom he married on June 14,1969, in Cicero, Illinois. Beloved father of daughters Lisa (Dan) Chambers, Gina (Rob) Knowlton and son John. Cherished grandfather of four amazing grandchildren; Ryan, Andrew, Dylan and Mia. Loving brother of Lillian (Charles) Nugent and Quinta (Victor) Pighetti and fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Caesar was preceded in death by his sisters Leda (Alfredo) Berni, Fernanda (Louis) Sassetti, Alberta (Dale) Haught and his brother David (Clara) Raffaelli.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman who had a deep connection and respect for nature. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and was a man of great wisdom and compassion. He will always be remembered for his boundless generosity; going out of his way to help others and opening his home to family & friends for a place to stay.

Family and friends will gather for a Memorial Visitation on Saturday, October 26, 2024 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service 6:30 p.m. at Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home 11028 Southwest Hwy. Palos Hills, IL.