Hoda Ilyavi Sr.

Hoda Ilyavi, Sr., 90, of Mundelein, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Born on December 6, 1935, in Tehran, Iran, Hoda’s journey was one of courage, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. Following a vacation to the United States in 1968, where he fell in love with the country and the opportunities it offered, he made the life-changing decision to immigrate, first settling in Jefferson City, Missouri. In 1970, he moved to the Chicagoland area, where he built a life rooted in hard work, integrity, and devotion to those he loved. Hoda dedicated many years to the hospitality industry, serving as manager of Libertyville Golf Course and later Ravinia Green Country Club in Riverwoods. He earned the respect of colleagues and friends through his leadership, exceptional work ethic, and humble nature. He believed that the best way to care for others was through kindness, consistency, and leading by example. Hoda found peace in the simple things. He loved spending time in his garden, carefully tending his flowers, orchids, and yard with patience and pride. It was there, surrounded by nature, that he found contentment. Though he appreciated quiet moments and the solitude of being outdoors, nothing brought him greater happiness than the laughter of his grandchildren. Their visits filled his home with joy, and they were the light of his life. Above all, Hoda was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He expressed his love not through grand gestures, but through everyday moments, quiet acts of kindness, and one tradition his family will always cherish—he never ended a phone call without saying, “I love you.” Those three simple words became his lasting gift to the people he loved most. His steadfast presence, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family will forever remain an enduring example to all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Hoda (Catherine Ellen) Ilyavi, Jr., Heidi Ilyavi, and Hope (Nicholas) Allegretti; his beloved grandchildren, Hannah, Connor, Griffin, Nicholas, Annabella, Rosalia, and Leonardo; his sister, Haydeh Ilyavi; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will continue to bloom in every garden tended with care, every family gathering filled with laughter, and every act of kindness shared in his honor. From Tehran to Illinois, Hoda built a life defined by courage, humility, and unconditional love. His greatest legacy will always be the family he cherished—and the words they will forever hear in their hearts: “I love you.” Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Burnett-Dane Funeral Home, 120 W. Park Ave., Libertyville, Illinois. Interment will follow at Lakeside Cemetery. For additional information, please call 847-362-3009 (tel:847-362-3009) or visit http://www.burnettdane.com to share a memory of Hoda.

Hoda Ilyavi Sr.

December 6, 1935 - July 9, 2026