Carlos F. Serrato

Carlos F. Serrato, age 65, entered eternal life on Monday, February 3, 2014 with his loving family by his side.

Carlos is survived by his brother, Mike Serrato; two sisters, Evan Linda Serrato and Anna Serrato (Tom Platt); nephew and caregiver, Cruz (Dawn) Serrato; Godchild, Lorenzo Cruz Serrato; sister-in-law, Janie Serrato; also survived by sisters, Lydia Gomez and Linda Maldonado; as well as numerous other beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

Preceded in death by his parents Amador Lara and Eduvijes (nee Fernandez) Serrato; and brother, Jess Serrato.

Carlos was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and received several medals of honor for his service in Vietnam. He attended Joliet Junior College and Western Kentucky University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and a Master's Degree in the School of Counseling. Carlos then went on to work at Illinois State University as Admissions/Residential Life Counselor, Emerson College in Boston, MA as Director of Multicultural Activities, University of Iowa as Assistant Director of Student Activities, and Lewis University as Director of Multicultural Student Services and as an Adjunct Professor. Carlos proudly served as advisor to many GLBTAU organizations. He made an incredible impact on the students that he mentored and served as a foundation for many young men and women who needed his guidance and support.

In lieu of flowers monetary donations in Carlos' name may be made payable to JJC Foundation. Proceeds will help fund the scholarship being established in honor of Carlos at Joliet Junior College, 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet, IL 60431. This scholarship will continue the legacy of his dedication to his students and his love for education.

A very heartfelt thank you is extended to the staff of the Joliet Area Community Hospice, especially Deacon Tom Marciani for the compassionate care that they have provided.

A Celebration of Carlos' life will begin on Saturday, February 8, 2014 with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service to begin at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Joliet. Visitation will be on Friday, February 7, 2014 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet, IL.