Alejandro "Alex" Ochoa Jr., 75, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, in Chicago surrounded by loved ones.

Alex, or as many know him, "Hondo," was born on May 24, 1950, to Alejandro Sr. and Julia Ochoa, in Mission, Texas. He later made Chicago his home. It became a city where he built his career, made lifelong friendships, and created a life filled with purpose and dedication. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Alex served from 1968 – 1972, a time that shaped his deep sense of discipline, loyalty, and service.

Alejandro is survived by his beloved wife, Katherine "Kay" Soto; his brother, Anthony Ochoa; his sister, Elizabeth Hope; and many nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Alex. He is preceded in death by his mother, Julia Ochoa; his father, Alejandro Ochoa Sr.; his brothers, Alfredo & Adrian Ochoa and his nephew, Tristan Ochoa.

As a teenager, Alex spent his formative years in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood. There, he made lifelong friendships, and spent countless afternoons playing baseball, laughing, and growing alongside the friends that shaped his life.

Above all, Alex will be remembered for his loyalty: to his country, his family, his friends, and all those fortunate to be a part of his life. After returning from the Navy, he continued his commitment to service by joining the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Police Department, where he spent more than 25 years protecting and supporting his community.

Beyond his work in uniform, Alex was a patron of the arts. For seven years, he ran a music promotion company "Yellow Rose Music Promotions," supporting Tejano musicians and sharing his love of live performances with the community. He found immense joy in celebrating the power of music.

Though Chicago was home, Texas always held his heart. Alex cherished his time in Texas, especially on South Padre Island, where the ocean, warmth, sunshine, and feelings of "home" brought him comfort and happiness.

Alex's legacy of love, loyalty, and quiet strength will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation services will be held on Friday, December 12th from 3 – 8pm at Hursen Funeral Home in Hillside, IL. Final visitation and Mass will be at 10 am and 11am respectively at Our Lady of the Holy Family church at 1334 W. Flournoy St, Chicago, IL 60607. Burial will immediately follow the Mass at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Hillside, IL.