Hank Pontarelli

Hank Pontarelli, age 94, passed away peacefully in his home with family Saturday, November 18, 2023. He was born in Chicago to immigrant parents, Henry and Victoria. Later meeting the love of his life, Connie, nee Iacullo, who welcomed him into heaven after their marriage of 65 years. Hank grew up with a strong work ethic holding three union cards for his father’s company, became a Navy Seabee and Veteran of the Korean War, later opened two liquor stores after moving his family from Chicago to Elmhurst. He was known for his ability to keep any plant alive, namely his basil, with which he and his devoted grandchildren have learned to make the Pontarelli famous pesto. His footwork could be compared to that of Fred Astaire, his love of golf kept him on the links in Lake Geneva almost every weekend, and any spare time he had was spent with his family. Hank was a dedicated father to Henry III (Lisa), JoMarie (Richard Jr.) Bogusz and Vincent Pontarelli; cherished grandfather to Annamarie Zamiski (Ryan), Mia and Richard III. Visitation Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at 9:00am until time of Mass of Christian Burial 10:00am, at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Street (at Madison), Elmhurst. Entombment Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Henry’s name to Visitation Catholic School 851 S York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Arrangements handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com