Always there to be a friend.
Chad was thoughtful and caring, finding every opportunity to celebrate others–both his kin and strangers. Whether it was someone’s birthday, a birth, or just because he sensed someone might need it, he delivered flowers. Terri, Chad’s mother, fondly remembers the reliable stream of flowers her son would arrange on her kitchen table for Mother’s Day, her birthday, or for no reason other than kindness. He was a friend to everyone and always went out of his way to take care of his parents. He could put anyone in a good mood just by entering a room.
Chad was featured on the front page of the local newspaper for his extravagant Halloween decorations. Every year he dedicated his time to embellishing his house for the neighborhood kids. He would adorn the house and then dress up and hand out candy in front of the spectacle. Families would go out of their way just to see him and his amazing creativity. Christmas was his other favorite holiday and another opportunity to decorate the house for everyone’s delight, adorning the roof with Santa, his sleigh, and reindeer.
Chad could always be seen sporting Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears merchandise. He loved sports and style, and always was conscientious about how he looked, but cooking was his one big love. He was an excellent chef, working diligently at his uncle’s restaurant. Food was another means for Chad to show love to others. For friend’s weddings or hangouts, he would fill massive bowls with pasta for all to share. He taught his nephew, Dominic, how to cook, a cherished activity between the two. For his friends and family, he liked to get creative, concocting different dinners that he posted online, always with the caption: “din din” before delivering the meal to the lucky recipients.
In his wake, Terri misses his voice, kindness, and laugh. He is remembered by Papa Jerry Thomas, Angela Leonetti, Jay Vonderhaar, Michael Leonetti, Brandon Leonetti, Jess, Dominic Leonetti, Logan Willett, Bailey Plant, Jake, Emily Willet, Amanda, Giovanni, Bane, David, Ainsley, Giana, Eleanor, Amelia, and countless others.
Chad’s mother, Terri Leonetti, provided the information for this narrative.
February 20, 1975-December 14, 2022-Age 47
Portrait Artist: Clayton Conner
Narrative Writer: Livia Cohen