Craig Sundstedt

Obituary

Craig Sundstedt, who brought joy to all he met, was called home on June 3, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on December 14, 1950, in Rockford, Illinois to parents David A. Sundstedt and Joan (Rapp) Robare. Craig spent over 50 years building a beautiful life in Algonquin, leaving a trail of kindness and laughter everywhere he went.

Craig’s heart was defined by the people he loved. He was the beloved husband of Nancy since their college days at Illinois State University. He was a proud and loving father to Matthew (Casey) Sundstedt and Kristyn (Joshua) Bochniak, and his eyes truly lit up when he spoke about his cherished grandchildren: Jack, Addie, Eli, and Zoe. Whether he was surrounded by family or connecting with his brothers, David E. (Kathy) and Bernard (Cindy), Craig’s commitment to those he loved was unwavering.

For his entire professional career, Craig poured his energy into Community District #300. As a special education teacher, administrator, and principal at Meadowdale and Golfview Elementary, he wasn't just an educator; he was a mentor and a friend. He was deeply respected and well-liked by students, parents, and colleagues alike, leaving a lasting impact on generations of families in the community.

Craig knew how to find happiness in the small things. His summers were defined by his love for gardening and golf—a hobby he famously celebrated with a hole-in-one a few years back. When he wasn't on the course, you could almost always find him outside, likely with the Cubs game on in the background.

His garden was his own private paradise. As a dedicated McHenry County Master Gardener, he created a sanctuary of beauty and serenity that provided a perfect haven for the backyard birds he loved to watch.

Craig’s impact went far beyond his professional life. He was a man who loved to help others, whether he was volunteering his time on Thursday nights at the Willow Creek Care Center to help families in need, or keeping the church grounds beautiful with a garden hose in hand.

Craig was the kind of person who made the world feel a little smaller and a lot kinder. He was the first to greet a new neighbor and the person who could get a smile out of anyone, even just by waving at children in shopping carts. He genuinely cared about people, keeping track of his “smile records” just for the fun of it.

Craig leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith, community, and the profound importance of loving those around you.

A memorial service to celebrate Craig’s life will be held on Monday, June 22, in the chapel at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to Scrapyard Climbing Collective’s Better Together Community Fund or the Willow Creek Church Care Center.

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June 17, 2026

So sorry for the loss of such a wonderful man. Our prayers are with you. We know Craig is at peace, but those left behind will feel his absence greatly. I know he volunteered with great enthusiasm over the years. I will remember him fondly as an extension of our family through Josh and Kristyn. Nancy you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace Craig as you have reached a beautiful garden with our Lord.

Kathy Keiser

June 16, 2026

I can't fully express what an honor it was that this man called me son. I may have been his son-in-law, but I never felt anything short of a full measure of his love. He was an incredible man, persistent and faithful whether it was to his family and friends, his coworkers, his garden, the golf links or the Chicago Cubs. He saw wonder and wisdom in the simplest of things. He gave respect to those overlooked by many and believed in the dignity of every person. He rejoiced in our successes and mourned our difficulties. He lived to watch his children and grandchildren grow and explore. He loved the wonder in their eyes and made life more wonderful because of his own. He filled the world with his spirit and we'll never be the same because of him.

Even as I can't imagine a world without him in it, I know that he's with us in every seed of hope and wonder and laughter and humility and courage that he planted while he was with us. My children's children will know him because his life and spirit lives in those seeds planted in each of us who knew him. As I mourn no longer seeing his face or feeling his strong embrace, I am forever grateful to have called him my father, to have been a receiver of his love, to have felt the warmth of his smile, the lightness of his spirit and the strength of his encouragement. He saw the best in me, and it is my greatest hope that when my own son and daughter sit to write about my life, that it will be with as much respect as I hold for him.

Josh Bochniak

June 16, 2026

When my brother, Josh became part of their family, Craig and Nancy made me feel like I was just as welcome. I can’t separate out my experience of Craig from Nancy. Together they demonstrated a faithful care and love to me. Their home was a warm embrace. Craig was always encouraging, always supportive, and to me the most gentle giant. I carried their kindness down the aisle at my wedding, wearing the most beautiful gift of my veil. They cared about how people experienced life and together they brought a sweetness and joy that echoed the lavish heart of the Father. You always left well fed and well loved. Craig leaves a legacy of kindness and generosity. Praying for your whole family, especially for Nancy as you all give thanks for and feel the loss of an incredible man!

Lisa Edwards

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