Vincent “Vino” Lamar Chinn, 47, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, transitioned peacefully on April 2, 2025. Born and raised in Chicago, IL, Vino was a father, brother, son, uncle, cousin, community shepherd, and lifelong friend to many.

Vino lived with deep love, a strong sense of loyalty, and a quiet strength. Whether through food, music, conversation, or presence, he made people feel cared for. He was a man of conviction—known for his “acts of service” approach to love and his commitment to family above all else.

As a child, he delighted his family with his early speech—calling his grandfather "Chinn" just like the adults. He came home from the hospital on the birthday of family matriarch Raggmopp (Yoconda’s mother), a nod to the multigenerational love that surrounded him from the beginning. He spent his early years at 3939 Lake Park in Bronzeville and later in Woodlawn on Kimbark Avenue—homes filled with memories, milestones, and music.

A proud big brother, Vino often said being a brother to Nathan, Darren and Jessie was one of his most important roles. Their childhood bond was both fiercely protective and playfully competitive—best friends from the beginning. Later in life, his bond with his sister Renee and his many nieces and nephews deepened into one of steadfast love and pride.

Vincent graduated from Carnegie Elementary School, attended Hyde Park High School (Class of ’95) through 11th grade and completed high-school at Lincoln’s Challenge, growing into a man who took pride in hard work and consistency. For ten years, he worked as a document courier at Cook County, where he was not only reliable, but beloved by his coworkers. He brought joy to potlucks, organized football pools, and fostered community—with colleagues like Judi and Mitch becoming lifelong friends.

Vino embraced fatherhood with his whole heart. He met Andrea Stewart in high school and became a devoted father to her daughter Zamani, adopting her as his own. He later co-parented Cameron Vincent Matthew Chinn with his forever friend, Tiffany. His children including God-child Savion—and later, his grandchildren through Zamani—were the center of his world.

He was in the choir as a youth, and not only sang but choreographed the dance moves with friends like Terrence. He co-founded NU Sound, a Boyz II Men-style harmony group with Elliott, Sean, and Lavar, and helped bring kids from the neighborhood to church, living like a quiet shepherd for his peers.

Vino was always surrounded by life—people, pets, plants. Throughout his life, he cared for cats, dogs, turtles, snakes, and even an iguana. His passion for music, tech gadgets, Chicago sports, and thoughtful debate made him a beloved fixture in the lives of many.

He is preceded in death by his father Jessie Dawson, maternal grandparents, and cousin Giana.

He is survived by his son, Cameron Vincent Matthew Chinn; his daughter, Zamani Stewart; grandchildren through Zamani; his mother, Pamella Chinn; siblings Nathan (Sr.), Darren, Jessie, and Renee; Aunts and Uncles (Gregory, Denise and Dwayne), nieces and nephews Nathan Jr., Mia, Melody, Elijah, Sarah, and Aidan; godson Savion; cousins including Erica, Mike, Joy, and Victor; his lifelong extended family The Turners ; friends Judi, Mitch, Bloom, Donna, and so many more.

Pastor Turner, Sister Lynn Turner, Ashley, Monique, Lynell, and Leah became a true extended family to Vino. Through every season of his life, their bond remained strong and unwavering. Pastor and Sis. Turner stood as true godparents, offering spiritual guidance, love, and presence that helped shape Vino’s foundation and faith. Their home and hearts were always open, and Vino remained deeply connected to each of them across the years.

Vincent means Victorious, and true to his name, Vino completed his assignment. He loved deeply, gave generously, showed up when it mattered most, and left us with memories that will echo for generations.

We are proud of him. We are grateful for him. And we will carry his love with us always.

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