Carl H. Willaby of Gurnee, IL, passed away suddenly at age 80, at Advocate Condell Medical Center on Thursday, May 30, 2019 surrounded by his family. He was born in Springfield, Minnesota to Henry and Olga (Ruddat) Willaby on March 12, 1939. He graduated from Comfrey High School in Minnesota. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy serving four years aboard the USS Hancock Aircraft Carrier. While aboard he travelled to the southeast Asia region to reinforce the 7th Fleet in Laos until tensions were resolved. At that point, operations continued from Japan to the Philippines. The Navy never left Carl, if you were 5 minutes early you were 5 minutes late.
While in the military, he married his high school sweetheart, Sylvia Tauer on June 27, 1961 in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. They had one daughter, Cynthia. Upon his return from service the family moved from their farming roots to establish a life in Illinois. Carl held various positions, but eventually his passion to create and build led a long career as a Structural Steel Ironworker, Local 1. His legacy can be seen on the many iconic buildings of the Chicago skyline, several bridges from downtown & surrounding suburbs and various structures throughout northern Illinois.
With his wife and family, Carl continued with his sense of adventure through travel. Visiting various locations throughout Europe, Alaska, Panama Canal and many trips to Hawaii. He enjoyed the local fare and points of interest making it an education as well as an enjoyment.
Carl’s passions were often found in the garage. He enjoyed working on small engines for himself and many friends. After retirement he took pleasure in making handcrafted woodwork. He was very involved with the Knights of Columbus taking part in selling of the holiday Christmas trees to many families and supporting the fish fry fundraisers each Lenten season. Due to his own cancer experiences, he took part as a Chairman in the Relay for Life for several years raising funds to help local communities attack cancer.
Carl was a devoted husband and Dad. He loved being surrounded by the women in his life. But, also took great pride of the men that became part of the family. He was never short of time to assist in helping with the home renovation projects, guidance with mechanics and lending a tool or two. He was excited to watch his great grandson grow as well as his love for cars as he drove around in his mini GMC.
He is survived by his wife Sylvia, and daughter, Cynthia (Mark) Anderson of Libertyville, two granddaughters Alissa (Edward) Sindles of Libertyville, Kayla Anderson of Chicago, one great grandson Edward and one more on the way, brother Henry (Cheryl) Willaby and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Lillian (Willie) Polzin, Ruby (John) Sondag, Alice (Afrom) Zimmer and Arlene (Orval) Karstens and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be on Monday, June 3, 2019 from 5:00 pm 8:00 pm at Marsh Funeral Home 305 N Cemetery Rd Gurnee, IL. On Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6401 Gages Lake Rd Gurnee IL (corner of Gages Lake Rd and Hunt Club Rd) visitation beginning at 9 am. The funeral mass will follow at 10:00 am.
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