Patricia A. Chesler (nee Mallin), died peacefully on Jan. 12, 2025 in the Oak Park home of her daughter, Deborah (Mark) Moroney. Born in Oak Park to Patricia and Roland “Bud” Mallin on Jan. 26, 1949, she graduated from the Academy of Our Lady (Longwood) High School and from the University of Illinois Chicago, which she always called “Circle.” The grandma of Liam and Adam Moroney, she shared a close relationship, starting with “Grandma Mondays” when they were young, leading to long talks about movies, politics, and sports as they got older.
She was a voracious reader, a world class napper, a lover of cinema and avid bridge player, for a time owning and operating a bridge club (with her lifelong friend Laurie Levine). She was a dedicated public servant, leading efforts at the departments of Alcoholism & Substance Abuse and Children & Family Services, and leading the Governor’s Task Force for Human Services Reform. Later in her career, she returned to University of Illinois Chicago to support research on women’s mental health treatment. Her rich legacy will live on in her example of being of service through her lifelong vocation working diligently for families, particularly women and children and those facing substance-use disorder.
Fondly remembered by her brothers and sisters, Dan Mallin (Donna), Kathy Rabbers, Bud Mallin (Natalie) and Melissa Colombo, she was christened by her niece as “Boppy,” aka “Bop,” and was the aunt/great aunt to many nieces and nephews, forever slipping them candy, elevating her title at times to “Treat Boppy,” even with the family pups. She wore this mantle proudly.
A gathering to celebrate and remember Pat will take place on Jan. 19, at Trattoria 225, 225 Harrison, Oak Park, from 1 to 4 p.m. Donations in Pat’s name can be made to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).