Elmwood Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Visitation Information

Mate Cuadra

Passed away on October 17, 2025


Mate Cuadra, age 20. Late of Lansing, IL. Passed away unexpectedly on October 17, 2025. Beloved son of Ruzica “Rose” (nee Kožul) and late Jaime Cuadra. Loving brother of Nicholas (fiancée Megan Hodnik), Ana (kum Mario Prancevic), Kristian, Sonja, and Sofia. Cherished grandson of Milka Kožul, late Frano “Frank” Kožul, and Maria Del Carmen Cuadra. Adored great-grandson of Rosa and late Miguel Cuadra. Dearest nephew of Kristina (Tom) Keilbasa, Jenny Kožul, and Xavier (Jacquelyn) Cuadra. Survived by many cousins, kumovi, and friends. Preceded in death by his beautiful and loving girlfriend April Valencia. Mate was an avid soccer fan and loved the challenge of not only playing the game but scoring goals. He also had a passion for cars. Mate had a sweet soul and was always full of energy, he had the biggest, beautiful smile that would light up a room just like his dad. Along with that beautiful smile, he always had something to say, and just a simple way of making you feel loved. His bond with his siblings was undeniable. They were always together. He loved looking after his sisters, and making sure they felt his love. Mate was surrounded by so many amazing friends he grew up with. He will always be remembered for loving his family. Though his time with us was cut far too short the impact he made on our hearts will last forever.

Rest in peace our sweet Mate, you will always be loved and remembered.

Visitation Friday, October 24, 2025,from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Funeral Services Saturday, October 25, 2025, 9:00 a.m. closing prayers at the Elmwood Chapel 11200 S. Ewing Ave. Chicago, IL. to Sacred Heart Croatian Catholic Church for Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 a.m. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.

Funeral

Elmwood Chapel
Saturday, October 25, 2025 - 9:00 am

Funeral Mass:
Sacred Heart Croatian Catholic Church
2864 East 96th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60617
Saturday, October 25, 2025 - 10:00 am

Interment:
Holy Cross Cemetery
801 Michigan City Road
Chicago, Illinois 60617

Visitation Location

East Side
11200 S. Ewing Ave
Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 731-2749

Map


Visitation Information

Friday, October 24, 2025 - 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm

Condolences
"My sweet Mate. Always ready for a hug with that smile of yours. Our family’s light is now dimmer without you in it. Love you sweet boy and will think of you always❤️❤️❤️"
- Tia Andrea
October 21, 2025 8:52 am

"Dear Rose,Nicholas,and the siblings of Mate. I am so sorry for the loss of your dear son and brother. May he rest in peace in the hands of our dear Lord. Dearest regards, Joe Jelinek "
- Joe Jelinek
October 21, 2025 9:57 pm

"I’m so sorry to hear this has happened to you and your girlfriend Mate… I can’t imagine what your family is going through right now… It’s been a long time since I talked to you & your family but I will always cherish our highschool memories with you, your brother, Abel & Libo. I remember you guys walking from the park by your house all the way to the elementary school by my house, just to hangout. You guys are the definition of real ones. I hope your family can heal how they deserve to, because this tragedy should not have happened at all. 🕊️🙏❤️"
- Haili Walker
October 22, 2025 4:51 pm

Candles Lit
"Your light lives on "
- Brianna Saucedo
October 20, 2025 7:49 am

"You'll always be in my heart ❤️ "
- Angie Perez
October 20, 2025 6:11 pm

"You will be forever missed. We all love you ❤️"
- Jessica Saucedo
October 21, 2025 10:30 am

"Mate, I will always remember you playing soccer with Logan and Maddie. Always running away with the ball and scoring goals.You were quick! I'll cherish those memories of you. My thoughs and prayers are with you Rose, your children and loved ones. May God comfort you in this extremely difficult time. May Mate rest in eternal peace his dad and loved ones. "
- Christina Garcia-Nowakowski
October 21, 2025 1:23 pm