Carol J. Umlauf (nee Sullivan), 85, a longtime resident of Oak Park died unexpectedly on March 2, 2026. Born on Sept. 16, 1940, she was a 4H member in her younger years, an avid skier and member of a ski club, and she cherished her time working summers at the dude ranch. While at Austin High School in Chicago, she made lifelong friends that she kept in touch with.
She enjoyed bowling, sewing, crocheting, reading, and her beloved Cubbies. She didn’t just attend Cubs games, she kept score at every single game and was thrilled when they won the World Series in 2016. A proud Irish American, she never turned down Shepherd’s Pie or good craic. Her trip of a lifetime was visiting Ireland in 2000. While she took many motor coach trips across the U.S., nothing ever compared.
Her Catholic faith was important to her, and she lived her life by the golden rule, showing kindness in ways big and small. She had a quiet sweetness about her and sent birthday and anniversary cards to practically everyone. She loved spreading joy and was the most thoughtful gift giver, even to the pets in the family.
While she had a long work history at Illinois Tool Works, her best job was mom and grandmother. A wonderfully independent woman who raised the same, she always showed up for her family and made sure they knew how loved they were every day. She had many cats that she spoiled and loved beyond measure.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Maurice and Margaret (O’Brien) Sullivan. She is remembered by her daughter Kerri (Brian) Spreng; her granddaughter, Maggie; extended family and many in the community.
Visitation was held on Monday, March 9 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Peterson-Bassi Chapels in Chicago with a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10 at St. Edmund Catholic Church in Oak Park, followed by interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to PAWS Chicago or Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago.
