Roger A. Belmonte Jr., 73, of Schaumburg, IL, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025.

Born on January 14, 1952, in Chicago, IL, Roger was the beloved son of the late Roger Sr. and Rita Belmonte. He was a proud graduate of Fenwick High School, where he developed a deep appreciation for education and brotherhood. He continued his academic journey at St. Mary's University in Winona, MN, where he was an active member of the TKE fraternity — an experience that helped shape his enduring values of loyalty, leadership, and service.

Roger dedicated nearly four decades of his professional life to the food service industry, serving as a regional manager for Brakebush Brothers, a respected chicken processing company based in Westfield, Wisconsin. Known for his integrity and warmth, Roger built lasting relationships with restaurateurs, food distributors, and his sales team — many of whom became cherished friends.

A natural leader, Roger served on the board of the Chicago Frozen Foods Association, including a term as President. His commitment to community extended beyond his career. In the early 1990s, he and ten other families co-formed Giant Steps, a school in Lisle, IL, dedicated to supporting children on the autism spectrum. Roger later served as President of the Giant Steps Parents Association, passionately advocating for the families of children with Autism.

Roger will be remembered as a devoted father, a proud grandfather, and a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures — a delicious meal, a captivating play, a classic car show, or a live concert. He was a steadfast supporter of the arts and treasured time spent with family and friends.

He is survived by his children, Clair Belmonte (Paul Gray) and Brian Belmonte; his siblings, Robert (Lillian) Belmonte and Maria Belmonte (Tom Rautenberg); his former wife, Karen Belmonte; his niece and nephews, Nicole Belmonte, Michael Belmonte (Danny), and Andrew Rautenberg; and his beloved grandchildren, Richard and Penelope Gray. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger Sr. and Rita.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5 at Hursen Funeral Home & Crematory (4001 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside, IL 60162) from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral mass will follow on Friday, June 6 at Old St. Patrick's Catholic Church (700 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60661) at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Giant Steps Canopy Campaign in Roger's memory. https://mygiantsteps.org/donate

As Old St. Patrick is a downtown church, parking during the week is always a challenge. However, there are several surface lots available within a block and the 625 W. Adams building (kitty corner from church) has a parking garage as well. With school being in session, street parking is just not available (except possibly for the hearse and 1 or 2 cars in front of church.) Please advise your guests and family members to park in a lot. You may use the app Spothero to find other near by parking garage.