Francisco Cervantes Garcia

Francisco Cervantes Garcia, 71, affectionately known as Paco, was born on October 2, 1951 in Tarandacuao, Guanajuato Mexico, and passed away on September 1, 2023. 

Paco was the devoted husband of his wife of 26 years, Laura Cervantes (Ortiz), and is survived by his daughter Carolina, son Andres, daughter Maritza, daughter Belinda and son Francisco, Jr., whom he loved dearly. He was the grandfather of Frida, Adela, Ezra and Clara. Paco was the loving son of the late Anacleto Cervantes and the late Juana Garcia. Paco was the caring brother to Ofelia, the late Amor, Araceli, Evelia and Sergio. 

In his early life, Paco enjoyed working alongside his family on the farm in which he was raised. As a young adult, Paco ventured out to Mexico City to work to support his family. In search of a better life and opportunities, Paco eventually came to the US and began his journey as a butcher (carnicero). Eventually, Paco acquired the very grocery store in which he tirelessly worked as a butcher. As a business pioneer in Chicago’s fast-growing Mexican community, Paco soon identified the need to provide his community a taste from home and began selling tacos from a small section in the rear of his grocery store. Paco’s commitment to quality and exceptional customer service caused his business to grow in popularity and expand into two additional “taquerias” in the southwest side of Chicago. The now famous “Paco’s Tacos” was born – a brand that has become an integral part of Chicago’s Mexican American food community. 

In addition to his famous tacos, Paco is remembered for his kindness, generosity, sense of humor and his warm smile. Paco touched the lives of many people and has left an indelible mark in Chicago’s food community. His legacy is only surpassed by the love, dedication and affection he gave to his family.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday September 6, 2023 from 4pm to 8pm at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S Madison St. Willowbrook, IL 60527. Family and friends will meet on Thursday September 7, 2023 for a 10am Funeral Mass at St Isaac Jogues Church, 4th and Clay St Hinsdale, IL 60521. Entombment will follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

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