Laureano Tan Obituary

Tan, Laureano

Dr. Laureano Tan - devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, respected physician, and loyal friend - peacefully passed away on February 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 91 years old. Laureano was born on July 4, 1934, in Manila, Philippines. From an early age, he experienced the hardships of history, including memories of the Japanese invasion - experiences that shaped his resilience and inspired his lifelong commitment to service and to building a better life for his family and others. He graduated from the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine in 1959 with honors and was recognized in the Manila Times for placing seventh in the nation. He immediately began training in surgery and internal medicine, following a dream rooted in dedication, perseverance, and hope. During this time, he was licensed in Canada and several U.S. states, including Illinois, Connecticut, New York, and California. In Chicago, he met the love of his life, Enriqueta Cruz, and they were married in 1964, beginning a remarkable partnership that would span more than six decades. The couple briefly returned to the Philippines, where they welcomed their daughter, Daphne, in 1967. Facing limited opportunities despite his extensive training, they returned to Chicago in 1968, where he completed his residency in anesthesia at the University of Illinois Medical Center. Dr. Tan joined West Suburban Hospital as an anesthesiologist, where he dedicated his career to caring for patients with exceptional skill and compassion. Their son, Laureano Jr., was born in 1974, and the family made Lombard their cherished home for over 50 years. Dr. Tan was known as a meticulous, diligent, and deeply compassionate physician. He took immense pride in his work and approached every patient with humility and quiet excellence. His commitment extended beyond the operating room - often waiving anesthesia fees for those who could not afford them, never seeking recognition, simply wanting to help. His kindness and generosity touched countless lives.

Though often a man of few words, Laureano was the steady pillar of his family - a quiet source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. He was always present when needed, offering support without judgment and giving selflessly without ever expecting anything in return. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vicente Tan and Tiu Kajon, and by his sibling, Dominga Arellano Chua.

Laureano leaves behind his cherished family: his beloved wife of 62 years, Enriqueta Cruz Tan; his children, Daphne Tan Adelman and Laureano Tan Jr.; and his treasured grandchildren, Cade Adelman, Mason Adelman, Joshua Tan, and Eliana Tan, who were the light and joy of his life. His family finds comfort in celebrating a life defined by love, humility, kindness, and unwavering service to others. Dr. Laureano Tan's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched - as a healer, provider, mentor, and most importantly, a devoted family man.

Visitation will be held at Knollcrest Funeral Home, 1500 S. Meyers Road, Lombard, IL, on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 3:00-8:00 PM. A Mass celebrating his life will be held at St. Alexander Catholic Church, 300 South Cornell Avenue, Villa Park, IL, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Memorials to American Society of Anesthesiologists are appreciated. For info: 630-932-1500.

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