ENTERTAINMENT

Chicago Founder Walter Parazaider Dies After Alzheimer's Battle

PUBLISHED Jun 17, 2026, 9:10 AM ET

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Chicago — Walter Parazaider, a founding member and saxophonist of the band Chicago, died in hospice on Wednesday, June 17 at 2:10 a.m., family members confirmed. Parazaider was 81 and had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease six years earlier; he had retired from touring in 2016–2017 after a decades-long career. The band posted a tribute on social media Wednesday morning and family members said a memorial will be scheduled at a later date. Daughter Felicia posted on Facebook thanking fans and noting the family’s relief that his suffering has ended; colleagues, fans and music outlets circulated statements and tributes this week.

By Mahnoor A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

March 1945 — Walter Parazaider born in Maywood, Illinois.
1967 — Co-founded The Big Thing, later renamed Chicago by 1969.
1969–2016/2017 — Recorded and toured with Chicago; contributed to major hits.
~2016–2020 — Retired from touring (reports state 2016–2017); diagnosed with Alzheimer's six years before death.
June 17, 2026 — Died in hospice at 2:10 AM; family confirmed and memorial to be scheduled.

News Intelligence

Walter Parazaider's death is a loss to the music world. His saxophone skills helped shape Chicago's sound. If you're a fan, his music touched your life. His battle with Alzheimer's also highlights the disease's impact on families and careers.

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Who Benefited

Fans, archival projects, streaming platforms and rights holders may see renewed interest and revenue from Chicago’s catalog following Parazaider’s death and subsequent tributes.

Who Impacted

Parazaider’s immediate family, close friends, and longtime bandmates suffered the personal loss of a husband, father and founding musical collaborator.