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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