Carl D. Oblinger, Ph.D.

Carl D. Oblinger, Ph.D., 72, of Springfield, died at 9:46 p.m. on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at his home as a result of Lewy Body Dementia. Carl was born on August 3, 1944 in Springfield, the son of Walter and Josephine Oblinger. He attended Springfield High School and graduated from Williston Academy, North Hampton, MA. Carl obtained a Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude from Franklin & Marshall College, a master's degree in American History from John Hopkins University, and a doctorate in history from Lehigh University. He was an assistant professor at Pennsylvania State University and Benedictine University. Carl served as Mayor of Chatham from 1989-1993; and Clerk of the Court, Seventh Judicial District, Sangamon County from 1992 to 1996. He also served as a trustee of Lincoln Land Community College and the Village of Chatham, and was a member of the Springfield Planning & Zoning Commission. Carl previously worked for the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and the Department of Children and Family Services as a labor relations specialist. He was a brilliant man and an accomplished author and historian who loved reading, politics, spending time at Boundary Waters, teaching, and basketball. In spite of his challenges, Carl always maintained his sense of humor and love for his wife. His outgoing nature will be missed by all. Carl was preceded in death by his parents; and his beloved dog, Wally. He is survived by his wife, Robin Brinkmeier-Oblinger of Springfield and her sons, Zack Brinkmeier of VA and Dane Brinkmeier of Springfield; one son, Erik Oblinger of NJ; one daughter, Jennifer Maulfair of VA; and four granddaughters. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, January 27, 2017 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield. Funeral Mass: 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Christ the King Parish, 1930 Barberry Drive, Springfield, with Rev. Msgr. David S. Lantz, celebrant. Memorial contributions may be made to: Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, c/o Department of Development Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905.