Renowned Cardiologist Dr. Caesar A. DeLeo Passes Away at 82

Dr. Caesar Augustus DeLeo, a respected cardiologist with over five decades of experience, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on January 13, 2026, in Lake Bluff, Illinois. His career was marked by a profound dedication to patient care and medical education, leaving a lasting impact on the community he served.

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 pursued 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 graduation, he completed his postgraduate medical training at Louis A. Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, as well as a cardiology fellowship at the University of Illinois.

For more than 50 years, Dr. DeLeo practiced as a cardiologist in the Chicagoland area. He garnered a reputation for his exceptional bedside manner, compassion, and commitment to teaching medical students. Colleagues and patients alike admired his dedication, often describing him as a mentor who instilled confidence and knowledge in those he taught.

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

Visitation and Memorial Service Details

A visitation will be held on January 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until a funeral service begins at 12:00 noon. The service will take place at Donnellan Family Funeral Services, located at 10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077. Those wishing to honor Dr. DeLeo’s memory may do so by planting a living memorial or sending flowers. For more information, individuals can visit donnellanfuneral.com or call 847-675-1990.

Dr. DeLeo’s legacy as a compassionate physician and dedicated educator will resonate with many who were fortunate enough to know him. His contributions to the field of cardiology and his commitment to patient care will be remembered for years to come.