Peter John Hylak, 87

DARIEN, IL – Peter John Hylak, born in Chicago on September 18, 1938, passed away on May 11, 2026, at his daughter’s home in Darien, surrounded by family who loved him dearly.

A proud Polish-American, lifelong entrepreneur, and natural-born giver, Peter lived a life defined by ingenuity, generosity, and an unshakeable work ethic. He taught those who loved him what matters most—hard work, betting on yourself, building something of your own, and loving your spouse with confidence and tenderness. He showed us how to laugh, how to raise children with a firm hand and a soft heart, and—perhaps most lasting—how to expect and cherish what a good partnership can be.

A chemical engineer, plastics manufacturer, inventor, and entrepreneur, Peter held numerous patents and spent his career in the manufacturing world—owning two businesses that brought people together around table games. Quiet pride filled him as he built a life for his family, and nothing made him happier than seeing Maria smiling. He was always ready to give what he had to make his children and grandchildren feel cherished.

Peter had a gift for connection and a presence that filled every room. He loved giving advice, and he never missed a chance to land a joke—or spring a well-timed practical joke on an unsuspecting soul. His laugh was loud, boisterous, and unmistakably his; once you heard it, you’d never forget it. He celebrated his Polish heritage with gusto—polka on the dance floor, any and all polish food, including delighting in the brave (or unsuspecting) few who tried czarnina. He played both the accordion and the piano, and playing music was the soundtrack of his happiest moments.

He was the beloved husband of Maria Hylak and a devoted father to Maria “Lisa” (Frank Cresci), Bridget (Joseph Hooker), Adela Packer (Julius Santiago), and Cecelia (Joseph Hylak-Reinholtz) of Darien. He loved his grandchildren deeply—Benjamin, Veronica, and Blaise Hylak; V and Amanda Millen; Harrison and Hamilton Santiago; and Genevieve and Jonathan “Jack” Hylak-Reinholtz.

Peter was preceded in death by his parents, Genevieve “Gene” and Emil Hylak; his sisters, MJ and Dolores; his beloved wife, Maria; and Luke John Neumann, his dearly departed first grandson (1992-97). After 52 years waking up beside the woman he loved, waking up alone was too much for his heart to bear.

He will be deeply missed—remembered in the stories told around the dinner table, in the echo of that unmistakable laugh, and cherished in the hearts of all who knew him. May his legacy of love, laughter, and music continue to guide those he left behind.

A celebration of Peter’s life will be held in Darien, IL. Please reach out to the family for service details and to share memories or photos.