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Stephen Nardi Obituary

Nardi, Stephen J. Of Chicago, Illinois passed away peacefully in his home on May 25, 2018. Stephen was born and raised in Maywood of the late Joseph and Celia Nardi his loving parents, along with his devoted sister Patricia Francey now deceased. He is survived by his cherished wife Deirdre Nardi (nee Dunn), his daughter Kimberley (Dave) Eyer and his son Stephen Craig (Stephanie) Nardi, 6 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Stephen raised his children in Wayne, IL, where they grew up with horses, were involved in the horse community of Wayne, and were members of Dunham Woods Riding Club. Stephen and his wife Deirdre of 22 years made their life in Chicago, entertaining friends and family on a regular basis. They shared a passion for all things Italian and traveled many times over to Italy sometimes alone and many times hosting friends in their favorite region of Tuscany. Stephen was very proud of his Italian heritage and he shared this with family and friends from all over the world. Stephen loved the business world and continued to run his business and go to work everyday until he passed. He was tremendously respected in all industries he was involved with. He was an esteemed leader in the Industrial and Commercial Real Estate Industry in Chicago, leading The Nardi Group Ltd and then on to Prime Group Realty Trust where he served as Chairman. He most recently started a software business, Realview LLC, that designed software to assist first responders. Stephen served as a Regent to Loyola University Chicago. He was very supportive of their endeavors and made many friends along the way. Stephen played polo for many years all over the world. He served as President of the Illinois Polo Association in 1970's. He loved horses and kept a farm near Rockford where he led the Oakbrook Fox Hunt as Master of the Hounds. After retiring the Hunt, he and his wife generously donated all the property, 300 acres, to the Byron Forest Preserve with equestrian rights in perpetuity. It is now known as the Stephen J. and Deirdre Nardi Equine Prairie. It gave Stephen much pleasure to know that this land will continue on with his legacy. Most of all, Stephen was a devoted husband, family man and cherished friend to all who knew him. His generosity knew no bounds and he was there for anyone who called upon him. Steve often wrote a heartfelt poem to those celebrating a special occasion. He lived a full life and shared all he had with those he loved. He will be so very missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of so many. Visitation Wednesday, May 30, 2018 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Thursday, May 31, 2018, 9:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. at Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60661. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL 60661 or Regents Council of Loyola University Chicago, 800 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. Info: www.donnellanfuneral.com or (847) 675-1990.



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Published by Chicago Sun-Times on May 27, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Nardi

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Kimberly Nardi

May 25, 2020

Missing you today Dadeo. Not a day passes that I dont wish you were here. I miss your guidance and wisdom right now more than ever..... but as your daughter, I will use the Nardi spirit to overcome all the obstacles in my way!!!!

Leeann

October 4, 2018

To be a fly on the wall when he met my parent's in heaven! He will know what I mean

Rest in peace dear Steve.

David and Gin Preston

June 23, 2018

Kimberly Nardi

June 18, 2018

Yesterday was the first time in 61 years that I didn't have you for Father's Day. Your gift still sits on my dresser with the card I bought in May. It's hard to deal with the fact that I can't call you to talk about life, ask advice or laugh about Finn and his latest antics ...... I just talk to the clouds and hope you can hear me!
Love and Miss You,
Kimberly

Craig Nardi

June 14, 2018

To my father, my mentor and my best friend, I do and will always miss you with all my being. Almost three weeks has now gone by since I got the call from Kim. I can tell you Dad that the emotion and pain in my heart is just as raw today as it was then. Words cannot do justice the impact that you have had on so many lives. Your smile, your laugh and your larger than life heart and love of life are an example for us all to follow. I have my memories, I have my pictures and I will always have my love for you. These will have to carry me until we meet again. Until that day comes, I hope that you know that you will be in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers every single day of my existence here on this earth. Your loving son, Craig

Patricia Mc Kenna

June 5, 2018

To the Nardi family...words could never express how sorry I am for your loss. To Kim and Craig who I knew well and to his wife. I work for Steve from 1974 to about 1990. We started off on Lasalle Street then moved to Hillside. I learned so much from him. I am th original business is good girl. He always made sure after his employees work hard we were always going to a Polo game in Oak Brook or our wonderful Christmas parties. And many other things. He gave me the courage to open my own Marketing Company which has been very successful for the past 20 years. And it was everything I learned from him was part of my success. And he never missed anyone's birthday. Maybe these are thing you would not write for condolences but this is what he meant to me. And to my friend Gloria you started a few months after me. And you were so loyal to him. Thank you Steve for all the memories. I have great stories and pictures, my prayers are with the Nardi family. Fondly. Patricia McKenna

John and Sharon McEleny

June 1, 2018

To Kimberly, Sharon and I extend our sincere condolences on the loss of your father. May he rest in Peace!

Helen and John Guiltinan

May 31, 2018

To Our Dear Friend Deirdre and Nardi Family

Our sincere condolences for your loss.
Steve's smile, glint, wit, sincere kindness and big heart..... will most certainly be missed.
May all your memories be your comfort.
Deirdre you are now and always in our hearts.
Lovingly,
Helen & John

Donna AL

May 31, 2018

Our condolences go out to your beautiful family.We are greatly saddened for your loss, Mr Nardi was a wonderful man & will never be forgotten.Our hearts & Prayers are with you.

Jerry and Regina McCallion

May 30, 2018

That man is a success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much. Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children. Who leaves the world better than he found it. Who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had. Rest In Peace my dear friend.

Jerry and Regina

Gary and Marilyn Shifrin

May 30, 2018

Deirdre,Craig and Kim
So sorry we couldn't be there in person to offer our condolences.
Steve was a one of the kind, savvy, ethical and successful business man.
He loved life's turns and twists which he navigated so well.
We always marveled at his ability to control business conversations and come out the winner in negotiations.
Even in non business activities he was the life of the party with his charm and story telling.
He will be missed.
Gary and Marilyn Shifrin

Jim Gannon

May 29, 2018

My Good Friend Deirdre.....

Saddened for your loss.
Steve was a good soul and a loyal friend to many.
He will be taking care of you from above.
Stay strong!

Jim Gannon

Rich Curto

May 29, 2018

Steve was a wonderful person. Always caring and giving, especially to those he loved the most - Deirdra, Craig and Kim. We spent a lot of time together during one chapter of Steve's extensive real estate career. His drive and desire to succeed was always on the forefront and no matter how strong the headwind, he persevered until we succeeded. Steve was respected by some of the most successful business people, as well as, individuals in his personal life.

We also enjoyed the non business fun times. Especially, a dinner and a glass of wine. Here's to you Steve and all that you accomplished in business and your personal life.

Rich Curto

Art Frigo

May 29, 2018

My favorite all-time Steve Nardi Horse story: it is always with great delight that I repeat on numerous occasions Steve's recollection of this delightful horse story: years ago as a guest in Italy at a fox hunting trip, the host invited Steve to ride his horse that he owned for 10 years. At the conclusion of the hunt the horse owner approached Steve: Mr. Nardi Steve I am very impressed by your horse riding skills. Steve was baffled and was unsure of why the owner would pay him such a compliment since many of those riding in the hunt were expert riders. When Steve responded back and said I don't understand why you would pay me such a compliment. The Italian host said I have owned that horse for over 10 years and my horse does not jump (apparently Steve had the horse jumping and was never aware of the horse's limitation. A good example of Steve's extraordinary skills and frankly - - - always in a humble manner. We will miss our many good times together (Sea Island, Mackinac Island, his Rockford horse farm and the many delightful gourmet dinners we shared together. Steve was incredibly generous , warm and very people sensitive. He will be sorely missed, Art Frigo and Monica Von Glahn

J C

May 29, 2018

Sincere condolences to the family for your great loss. Please know that others share your grief and pray that the God of all comfort sustain each of you during your time of mourning.

Amy Jackson

May 29, 2018

I wish that my best friend, Marge Fletcher, was alive to share beautiful memories of the times we shared with Kim and the Nardi family. What a great legacy for a generous and caring man. Thank you for the positive impact made on the world.

Tamara Friese

May 28, 2018

To my wonderful loving friend Kimberly... you are so blessed to have such a wonderful father who loved you and I know you are going to miss him so much. Connor and Lindsy and the grandbabies are so blessed to have such a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather. Just know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers and I wish I could be there for you to lean on. We love you all so much. Tam and Butch.

May 28, 2018

This news was particularly bracing because Steve was one of those bigger than life people whom you assumed would live forever. We spent many evenings together discussing business and life and politics and while we did not always agree, we never ceased to enjoy each other's company in the process, often laughing at the absurdity of it all and finally reaching consensus over choosing a great bottle of wine.

Steve was a wonderful historian, having interacted with so many movers and shakers in Chicago and around the country and his stories were remarkable. Always accessible, never arrogant, a beautiful combination of prowess and humility. A profound wisdom gained by action, experience and drinking deeply from the river of life.

Deirdre, he spoke of you often with great love and admiration. He knew exactly how much you loved him because he felt the same way. Your time together brought him great joy!

We will all miss you Steve.


Rick Abraham

Carroll White

May 28, 2018

Dear Deirdre,
Shannon and I are saddened by Steve's passing. He was always such a kind and funny guy, taking an interest in everyone, so much like Poppa Nardi. We hold you close in your time of sorrow, and look forward to sharing happy memories, always.

Cheryl Mccallion

May 28, 2018

I'm so very sorry to hear of steves passing
I know that my dad is so very sad to hear this news
Dedrie my deepest condolences
Cheryl. Jerrys daughter

David and Althea

May 28, 2018

Dear Deirdre we are so sorry to hear about Stephen and offer our deepest condolences to the family. May you draw close to God during this difficult time and he will draw close to you.

Mary Mulhern

May 27, 2018

We have many memories with the Nardis but will always know they got married 2 weeks after us. We were happy to share our wedding weeks with each other. Steve's generosity to our charity The House of Good Shepherd was endless. He loved to talk about Italy and his family. Steve and Dee were lucky to find each other and remain as happy 22 years later! I know that Steve is in a better place with his parents he adored and his sweet sister! RIP Friend!

Nanette Albanese

May 27, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to Deidre and family. What a beauitiful person, ... such a wonderful life. I am thinking of you at this time of sorrow.

Nanette J. Albanese
Pearl River, NY
Loyola Rome Center, Fall 1981

Jo Ann & Stuart Nathan

May 27, 2018

Dear Deirdre, it was clear to everyone just how devoted you and Steve were to each other. Steve was the most wonderful, loving person,always with a twinkle in his eyes. We will miss him, and our hearts go out to you. Jo Ann & Stuart

Peter and Sheila Belsky

May 26, 2018

We are deeply saddened by the loss of a very special man and long time friend.
Peter and Sheila Belsky

Kimberly Nardi

May 26, 2018

Rest In Peace Dadeo .... I will miss you so❤

Rick

May 26, 2018

I will never forget his kindness. May God give him eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain.

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Memorial Events
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May

30

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Old St. Patrick’s Church

700 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL

May

31

Visitation

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Old St. Patrick’s Church

700 West Adams Street, Chicago, IL

May

31

Funeral Mass

10:30 a.m.

Old St. Patrick’s Church

700 West Adams Stree, Chicago, IL

Funeral services provided by:

Donnellan Family Funeral Services

10045 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077

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