Felipe Reyes

Felipe Antonio Reyes (Tony), 85, passed away August 23, 2012. He lived a good life to the end. His decision to not label his physical condition gave him two and a half years of quality living to the end. He died in the comfort of his Winfield IL home, on his terms. He often said, "I'm going out with all the original part's.", providing us with a beautiful model for facing life bravely and turning it over to God. What a Wise and Brave Warrior he was!
Tony was born in McAllen TX to Graciela Carillo and Antonio De Leon Reyes on February 5, 1927. He lived a rich childhood of adventure and hard work with his siblings-Lorenza, Nativida, Antonia, Alta Gracia, Angelica, Roberto and Hortencia. He enlisted proudly as a 17 year old in the US Navy during WWII and served again at age 23 as a US Marine during the Korean War having received 11 medals including the Presidential Citation. He lived a life of service throughout, first to his country, then to 59 years marriage to Emma Flores Reyes and his 3 children Sandra, Tony and Sam, then to the boxing community by creating the first Boys Club in McAllen TX and as VFW Post Commander in West Chicago IL. He retired from the Illinois Bell System and quickly started another career as a McAllen TX school bus driver (22 yrs). His student riders brought him immeasurable joy. His last years were spent with family close by in Winfield IL often delighting us as he broke into song, playing his harmonica or telling jokes. Papa was so proud of all his grandchildren. He never tired of watching boxing matches on TV.
Tony is lovingly remembered by Sandra (Rob) Smith, Tony (Kathy) Reyes, Sam Reyes, Keeley Smith, Logan (Laura Foster) Smith, Mackenzie Smith, Philip (Tony) Reyes (Meredith Koch) Reyes and Melinda Reyes; his sister Antonia Garza and many nieces, nephews and all the layers beyond. He is preceded in death by his wife, Emma Flores Reyes, both parents, 6 siblings, granddaughter Samantha Reyes, nephew Honore Castro.
Local visitation will be held at Norris-Walen-Segert Funeral Home, 132 Fremont Street, (one block north of Washington St. and Main) West Chicago, IL on Sunday August 26, 2012 from 3 pm to 7 pm. For Information 630-231-0060 or www.norriswalensegertfh.com