Esteemed Cardiologist Dr. Caesar A. DeLeo Passes at 82

Dr. Caesar Augustus DeLeo, a highly respected cardiologist, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, at the age of 82 in Lake Bluff, Illinois. He was known for his dedication to patient care and his significant contributions to the medical community over a career that spanned more than five decades.

Born on November 3, 1943, in New York City, Dr. DeLeo was the son of Nicholas V. DeLeo, M.D., and Anne M. DeLeo (Ciccone). He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Scranton before earning his medical degree cum laude from the University of Florence School of Medicine in Italy in 1971. Following his medical education, he undertook postgraduate training at Louis A. Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago and completed a fellowship in cardiology at the University of Illinois.

Dr. DeLeo dedicated his professional life to cardiology in the Chicagoland area, where he became renowned for his compassion and exceptional bedside manner. He was not only committed to his patients but also to educating future generations of medical professionals. His colleagues and students praised his ability to connect with patients and his unwavering dedication to the field.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Hesser DeLeo, and their three children: Nicolle DeLeo, Joseph DeLeo, and Claire O’Hern (married to Timothy O’Hern). Additionally, he leaves behind his grandchildren, Grace, Oliver, and Theodore “Teddy” O’Hern, as well as his sister, Joanne Kavulich, and nephews Stephen and Mark.

His legacy will be honored during a visitation on January 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until a funeral service at 12:00 noon at the Donnellan Family Funeral Services located at 10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077. For further information, interested parties can contact the funeral service at 847-675-1990 or visit their website at donnellanfuneral.com.

Dr. DeLeo’s contributions to medicine and his impact on the lives of his patients and students will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege to know him.