Carmen Caballero

Carmen D. Caballero
May 6, 1950 – September 23, 2026

Carmen D. Caballero, 76, of Waukegan, Illinois, passed away on September 23, 2026.

Carmen was born on May 6, 1950, in Manatí, Puerto Rico. At the age of six, she moved with her family to Waukegan, Illinois, where she would make her home and build a life centered around family, laughter, and love. She was a dedicated employee of Cherry Electric for more than 40 years, forming many friendships throughout her years there.

Anyone who knew Carmen knew that she had a personality all her own. She was sassy, strong-willed, stubborn, and unapologetically herself. Once Carmen made up her mind, there usually wasn't much changing it—it was her way or no way. But along with that stubborn streak came an incredible sense of humor. She was goofy, playful, and a natural jokester who loved doing anything she could to make the people around her laugh. Her humor could bring out the kind of deep belly laughs that will be remembered and missed by everyone who loved her.

In her younger years, Carmen loved to dance and was truly the life of the party. As the years went on, she found plenty of other ways to enjoy herself. She faithfully looked forward to her weekly bingo games, never lost her dedication to a good scratch-off ticket, and loved true crime. Carmen also loved food and cooking, but what mattered most was what came along with it—having her family together.

Family was at the center of Carmen's life. Nothing brought her more happiness than being surrounded by the people she loved, and her grandchildren held an especially precious place in her heart. They were her pride, her joy, and truly her world. The memories they shared with their grandmother—from her jokes and laughter to her unmistakable sass—will be carried with them always.

Carmen was preceded in death by her parents, Demetrio Pagan Sr. and Rosa Pagan; her beloved son, Cecilio A. Vega; her granddaughter, Elisia M. Vega; her brother, Demetrio Pagan Jr.; her sisters, Rosa M. Vega and Mercedes Pagan; and her niece, Rosa L. Vega.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughter, Carmen L. Gonzalez; her son, Louis R. Vega; her grandchildren, Jasmin M. Vega, Louis Petrick-Vega, Louis A. Vega, Edwin Gonzalez Jr., and Elisette J. Gonzalez; her great-grandson, Leon A. Vega; and her sisters, Maria T. Rivera and Gladys M. Perez, along with extended family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Carmen leaves behind a lifetime of laughter, stories, and memories that her family will continue to share for generations. Her presence was one that could fill a room, and although that room will feel different without her in it, the love, laughter, and family she leaves behind are a lasting reflection of the life she lived.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A Visitation will be held in memory of Carmen on October 9th, 2026, from 5:00 - 9:00 PM at the Memorial Chapel of Waukegan, 1521 Washington St., IL, 60085.

Any donations made towards the family are greatly appreciated:

https://gofund.me/30b302b35

https://thememorialchapelofwaukegan.com/obituaries/carmen-caballero/guestpayment