Juan Carlos Rios, age 52 of West Chicago, formerly of Aurora, IL passed away peacefully, Friday, January 1, 2021 with the love of his family surrounding him after a seven year battle with cancer. He was born November 21, 1968 in Mexico to his loving late parents, Ray and Lupita Rios. Juan is the cherished husband of Jenny Smith, wedded on December 4, 2013. Adored father of Grace and Raymond Rios and his step-children, Alex and Maddie Smith. Devoted brother of Patricia, Joe and Blanca Rios. How you refer to Juan depends on when and how you met him. His birth name was Juan Carlos Rios Contreras. As a young child in Mexico, he was Juanito. Growing up in West Chicago he was Johnny. But when he went to college and began his career, he was Juan. Regardless of how you referred to him, Juan was golden. He was your true friend, brother, husband, father. Juan always knew he wanted to be a police officer. He always fought for what was right and was known for always going out of his way to help people. He was loved and respected by his fellow officers. He was the perfect image of “officer friendly” during his 25 years with the Naperville Police Department. In fact he was a proud D.A.R.E. officer and later went on to work as a School Resource Officer for 11 years. Juan always loved working with kids, impacting many students along the way. Family meant everything to Juan. He was the oldest of his four siblings, Patricia, Joe and Blanca. He was born in Tamazula, Jalisco and immigrated to this country with his family as a young 5-year-old boy. His parents, Ray and Lupita taught him to have a strong work ethic. He worked for everything he had and reminded us that nothing was handed down to him. He excelled at everything. Even when he struggled at it. He had a strong handshake and a loving hug. He wore his emotions on his sleeve and loved a good sweet. He could grill the perfect steak and always sought comfort in some good old fashion frijoles. Public Visitation: Friday, January 8th 9:00-12:00 Noon at Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville, IL 60540. CDC current guidelines limits the number of guests attending the visitation at the funeral home. Masks are required with social distancing. Mass of Christian Burial: Friday, January 8th 1:00 PM at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563. The Church community requires masks to be worn, with 6 foot social distancing, and hand sanitation while arriving to Church. Church will allow 100 guests. Live streaming of the funeral Mass will occur. Interment is private. For more information, please call 630-355-0213 or www.friedrich-jones.com

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