Beloved Musician Walter Parazaider of Chicago Passes Away After Battle with Alzheimer's at 81

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Walter Parazaider, the esteemed founding member of the legendary rock band Chicago. At 81 years old, Parazaider's life was cut short after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's.

His loving wife, JacLynn, revealed that Parazaider breathed his last at 2:10 a.m. on Wednesday (June 17), surrounded by her unwavering support.

Felicia Helen Parazaider, his devoted daughter, also confirmed his passing in a poignant Facebook post. She affectionately referred to him as her hero and expressed relief that he is no longer suffering.

Chicago's loss is a testament to the devastating impact of Alzheimer's, a condition that affects an estimated 6.9 million people in the United States. According to the Mayo Clinic, this debilitating disease causes brain cells to die due to a buildup of proteins.

Parazaider's remarkable career spanned over five decades, during which he solidified his place as an accomplished saxophonist and instrumentalist. He was an integral part of Chicago's formation in 1967, alongside fellow members Peter Cetera, Terry Kath, Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, James Pankow, and Danny Seraphine.

Chicago's impressive discography boasts a multitude of hits, including three Billboard Hot 100 No. 1s: 'If You Leave Me Now,' 'Hard to Say I'm Sorry,' and 'Look Away.' The iconic band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.