Felix Stungevicius, 92, Honorary Consul of Uruguay (Illinois) from 1942 until 1993, passed away January 22, following a brief illness. Stepping down as Honorary Consul at the age of 73, Stungevicius was later recognized by former Uruguay President Dr. Jorge Batlie (2000-2005) for his five decades of dedicated diplomatic service and exemplary leadership. Stungevicius also served as Dean of the Consular Corps of Chicago, a coalition of diplomats, representing 80 countries, whose mission is facilitate and enhance international partnerships and opportunities.

Stungevicius taught at Northwestern University and the University of Chicago, from which he received his MBA. A member of the prestigious Economic Club of Chicago for over 50 years, he was honored by the Club for his outstanding contributions and for furthering its mission to "to aid in the creation and expression of an enlightened public opinion on the important economic and social questions of the day." He also served in various leadership roles for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Stungevicius, who was of Lithuanian descent, was born in Moscow, Russia on April 25, 1920. Following his early childhood in Lithuania, his family immigrated to Uruguay. He attended college in Montevideo, Uruguay where he studied law prior to moving to Chicago. Fluent in six languages – Russian, Lithuanian, Polish, French, Spanish and English – he opened, in 1958, the American Association of Translators, Interpreters and Linguists, Inc., a successful international translation, design and printing company that would later expand to include the companies Communica International and International Language and Communication Centers. Retiring at the age of 89, Stungevicius has been recognized for his business acumen, community service, and his vast experience in and knowledge of international relations and business. A true scholar and gentleman in the classic sense, Stungevicius gave generously of his time and talent to mentor young people pursuing careers in academia and/or diplomatic service.

Stungevicius is survived by daughter Alexis Glascock (Bonsal), of Paradise Valley, Arizona; son Mark Stanton (Barbara) of Paradise Valley, Arizona; five grandchildren, Alexis, Phillip, ElyseCristina, Drake and Olivia; godson and cousin Dr. Jurgis Karuza, Jr. (Colleen), of Buffalo, New York; cousins Jurgis Christopher Karuza, of Buffalo, New York and Elisabeth Karuza, of Rochester, New York; and dearest friend Olga Durovic. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 26 at 11:00 am in the chapel at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago. Remains will be interred at Saint Casimir Cemetery in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Jesuit Fathers Mission, 2345 West 56th Street, Chicago, IL 60636. For info 312-421-0936