Peter Victor Fazio, Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Victor Fazio, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, esteemed attorney, and cherished member of the Chicago community.

 Born in January 1940 to Peter Victor Fazio, Sr. and Marie Fazio, Peter was raised in a family with a rich legal heritage. His father was a long-time lawyer in Chicago—a path Peter proudly followed which allowed him to help countless people throughout his 40 plus year career. Peter grew up in Chicago alongside his brother Tom, who predeceased him, and his sister Marilyn, who survives him. He attended New Trier High School and pursued higher education at the College of the Holy Cross, graduating in 1961. He earned his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1964. In 1966, Peter married the love of his life, Patti Ann (née Campbell). Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming three children: Patti-Marie, Catherine Elizabeth, and Peter Victor Fazio, III.

A devoted father, Peter cherished family traditions, especially baking Christmas cookies and making crepes—a beloved activity that filled their home with warmth and joy. His family grew with the addition of his sons-in-law, Dave (husband of Patti Marie) and Scott (husband of Catherine), whom he embraced as his own. Peter was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Karen Catherine, Jack, Will, Ian, Ethan, and Isaac, with whom he shared many cherished moments.

 Peter's legal career was marked by dedication, excellence, and a deep commitment to his clients. He began his tenure at the prestigious law firm of Schiff Hardin & Waite (now ArentFox Schiff), as a high-schooler working in the mailroom. Over time, he went on to serve on the firm’s Executive Committee and as its Managing Partner, guiding the firm through significant growth. He also served on the Board of Directors for both NiSource and Exelon. To his clients and colleagues, he was more than a trusted counselor, he became a friend. Peter championed the rights of the medically underserved in Chicago throughout his career. He guided Saint Anthony’s Hospital through challenging transitions and towards solvency as its long-time Chairman of the Board As a result of his stewardship, Saint Anthony’s now stands out among Chicago-based safety net hospitals and attracts patients solely because of the quality of care provided. In recognition of his efforts, he and his wife have been forever memorialized through the dedication of its emergency room in their honor.

 Deeply committed to his faith and community, Peter was actively involved in several civic and religious organizations in Chicago. He was a long-time parishioner of Holy Name Cathedral, where he served on the Finance Committee and attended Mass weekly for more than 60 years. His dedication to his faith was a cornerstone of his life. Peter also was a member of numerous professional associations, including the American Bar Association, The Economic Club of Chicago, the Illinois State Bar Association, and The Chicago Bar Association. His commitment to the city he loved was evident in his service and leadership. Peter and Patti made their home in and around Streeterville in downtown Chicago for much of their lives. After a brief period in the suburbs while their children were teenagers, they settled back into downtown Chicago, where they have lived for the past 35 years in an apartment they love with breathtaking views of both the city and Lake Michigan. Peter took great joy in sharing these vistas with family and friends, hosting annual gatherings for the Chicago Air and Water Show that became cherished traditions. In his personal life, Peter embraced his passions wholeheartedly. He and Patti loved traveling together, creating lasting memories on trips to every continent. In his later years, Peter became a skilled photographer, capturing the beauty of wildlife and unique perspectives of his beloved Chicago. His photographs are a testament to his artistic eye and serve as a lasting legacy for his family and friends. 

Peter is survived by his loving wife Patti, his sister Marilyn, his children Patti Marie (Dave), Catherine Elizabeth (Scott), and Peter V. Fazio III, as well as his cherished grandchildren. Peter Victor Fazio, Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and selflessness to his family, his distinguished legal career, his deep faith, and his profound impact on the Chicago community. His legacy of love, integrity, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but forever held in the hearts of his family and friends.

 A visitation and funeral service will be held to celebrate Peter's life at Holy Name Cathedral at 10 am on October 26th. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Anthony Hospital in his honor.