Graciela Balcazar

In Loving Memory of Graciela “Chela” Balcazar June 8th, 1940 – February 21st, 2026 Graciela Balcazar passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving and devoted family on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at the age of 85. Born in Queréndaro Michoacán, Mexico Graciela was born to Socorro Vallejo on Saturday, June 8th, 1940. Described as a safe place by her loving granddaughter, Seyla Balcazar, she was known as a mother and grandmother to all, known for her compassion and care. A pillar and a village all on her own to the Balcazar family, she was also known for her determination, strength and resilience through all adversaries. She is also known for her food and her cooking, which filled the house with warmth, comfort and love. Her grandchildren, Seyla and Jacob, fondly recall her slipping money into their hands as they left visits in a silent yet proud declaration that she will always take care of them. Graciela Balcazar enjoyed spending her time watching Turkish Soap Operas, teaching her granddaughter, Grace, how to cook and cooking for the holidays. She enjoyed telling stories of her mother, sister, her childhood, and listening to music and dancing. She had a great sense of humor, wit and sarcasm. Graciela will be deeply missed by everyone blessed to have known her. Graciela Balcazar is preceded in death by her mother, Socorro Vallejo, sister, Maria de La Luz Tellez, brother-in-law, Joel Tellez, and her niece, Maria S. Tellez-Carlson. Graciela is survived by her four children Carlos Tellez, Consuelo Warring, Victor Balcazar and Gabriela (Robert) Forte-Balcazar. Her three grandchildren Jacob Warring, Seyla (Vincenzo) Balcazar, and Grace Balcazar. And her two great-grandchildren Ameliana Fay Di Cristofano and Leonello James Di Cristofano. The Balcazar Family would like to thank everyone who has shown their mother and grandmother compassion and comfort during these times. Grace Balcazar would like to personally thank all her friends for the love, kindness and gentleness they have shown to her. The family would also like to personally thank Josie for taking care of their mother/grandmother all these years, and Nena and Letty for their care and planning for all of this would not be possible without their help and support. A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28th from 1PM-4PM at Delgado Funeral Chapel, 400 N Landau Ave, Joliet, IL 60432. Graciela’s last wishes will be honored, and she will be laid to rest with her mother and sister in Queréndaro Michoacan Mexico,. More information will be available at a later date.

Graciela Balcazar

June 8, 1940 - February 21, 2026