Marcelino Ibarra

Marcelino Ibarra, age 44, of Highwood, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his family home on Thursday, November 14, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on December 14, 1979, in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, he was the beloved son of the late Juanita Ibarra, who passed away on October 28, 2014. Marcelino was raised by his mother and his devoted grandparents, Marcelino Ibarra and Maria Carmen DeLeon. Together, the family immigrated to Highwood, where Marcelino would grow to become an integral part of the community.

Marcelino attended St. James School and graduated from Highland Park High School, where he built lasting friendships and developed a passion for serving others. He worked at the Highwood Public Library, a job that allowed him to share his love for learning and connect with people in his neighborhood. For the last ten years, Marcelino was a dedicated concierge at Lexus of Highland Park, where he was known for his warm demeanor and commitment to providing excellent service.

Marcelino's family was deeply involved in the Saint James Church community, and with the Committee Hispano in Highwood, where they worked to strengthen the ties between families and celebrate their shared heritage. Marcelino was a passionate fan of the Chicago Bulls, and it was common to see him wearing Bulls apparel around town, proudly showing his love for the team.

He is survived by his wife, Claudia, and her son, Juan David León Rodríguez. Marcelino is also remembered by his extended family and friends, who will miss his kindness, loyalty, and the joy he brought to all those around him. He was preceded in death by his mother and grandparents.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated in Marcelino's honor on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Christ Our Hope Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, 770 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, Illinois, with Rev. Timothy O'Malley as the celebrant. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, Illinois.

Marcelino's warmth, devotion to his family, and his love for life will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.

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