Uncle Took On Dad Role For Nieces, Nephews: COVID Memorial

LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL — Elizabeth Fontanez misses her uncle Edwin who lost his battle with COVID-19 last fall.

"Like many deaths, it was unexpected and very difficult seeing a loved one you shared so many memories with weaken and leave us," she told Patch as part of a COVID Memorial project. Edwin Fontanez of Lake in the Hills died on Sept. 14.

Elizabeth says Edwin was a smart, "to-the-point" kind of man who had a gentle side.

He had seven brothers and one sister and often took on the role of father to his many nieces and nephews. He helped Elizabeth's dad and other uncles when they went through "tough times," she said.

"I think of my Uncle Edwin every day and can hear his voice and past conversations in my head," she said.

Here is a look at more memorial stories shared on Patch:

• Army Vet Dies After Short Battle With The Virus: COVID Memorial
• Mom Who Lost 3 Kids In Tragic Deaths Dies From COVID-19
• Love Story Over 56 Years In The Making Ends In Coronavirus Death
• 'Before I Go': Son Shares Last Words Of Mom Lost To Coronavirus
• Family Of Young Coronavirus Victim Pleads: Take It Seriously

Do you have a story to share? Using the form below, we invite you to tell us about the loved ones you've lost — who they were, what they enjoyed and what difference they made in your life. You can also submit a photo. All tributes will then be compiled in a searchable virtual memorial.