Leo Waldmeier

Leo Waldmeier, a proud Swiss citizen and celebrated chef, was a beloved husband, father, and opa. Born and raised in Hellikon, Canton Aargau, Switzerland, alongside his four brothers, he carried the spirit of his homeland with him throughout his life. Its landscapes, traditions, and culture remained forever in his heart.

A man of many talents, Leo possessed a wonderful sense of humor and remarkable charisma. His love of food, hospitality, and bringing people together began at the side of his mother, Trudi. Inspired by her at an early age, he embarked on a culinary path at 15, completing apprenticeships in Switzerland’s finest hotels before enjoying a forty-year career with Hilton International. His work took him to London, Istanbul, Puerto Rico, Curaçao, and Singapore, where he honed his skills and embraced new cultures. He eventually settled in Chicago, serving as Executive Chef of The Drake Hotel for 26 years, where he earned the deep respect and affection of colleagues and guests alike.

It was in Chicago that Leo met Karen, a Canadian who had transferred from Toronto when Hilton International assumed management of The Drake in 1981. They married two years later in Hellikon and built their life together in Chicago, raising two daughters, Cynthia and Rosemary. Though he loved Chicago’s vibrant food scene, Leo found his greatest joy in nature. He cherished hunting, fly fishing, and long walks outdoors, particularly at Lac Manitou in Quebec’s Laurentians, where he delighted in fishing for perch, foraging for chanterelles, and sharing his catch with family and friends. Each November, he returned to Switzerland to join his brothers for their traditional hunt, reconnecting with his roots.

Leo’s quick wit, generous spirit, and vibrant personality endeared him to all who knew him. He passed away after a long illness on March 13, 2026, at the age of 81. He is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters Cynthia and Rosemary; their husbands, Dan Robinson and Darryl Smith; and grandchildren Leo and Remy Robinson, and Cecelia and Louisa Smith. He will be deeply missed by friends, colleagues, and extended family across continents.