Elmar Kaup

CRYSTAL LAKE – Elmar Kaup, 75 of Crystal Lake, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2011 at his home surrounded by his loving family, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Born Jan. 6, 1936 in Torgli, Estonia, Elmar immigrated to Crystal Lake from Germany in 1956. He served in the United States Army from 1957 until 1963, earning the Good Conduct Metal.

He was a Master Craftsman for 50 years, many of his customers became friends due to his kindness, sense of humor, and easy-going personality. 

Elmar loved watching his Chicago White Sox and Bears. He enjoyed traveling with his wife to visit family in Estonia, Australia, Germany, Hungary and many other places. He also enjoyed the occasional trip to the riverboat, Arlington Park, and his yearly visit to Las Vegas. But, mostly he loved his family; he was a caring and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and uncle.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Maria (nee Szajlai); his daughters, Ginger (Richard) Pellegrino and Anita (Eric) Smullin; grandchildren, Genny, Richard, Alex, and Alyssa; great-granchildren, Mya and Aaliyah; his sister Linda Kabral of Australia; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mart and Ann (nee Sau) Kaup; his sister Salme; brother Leo; and brother-in-law Arkadi.

A memorial service will be 11a.m., Friday, Aug. 19 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 West Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Northeastern Illinois, 405 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington IL 60010; or Bethany Lutheran Church,  76 West Crystal Lake Ave., Crystal Lake IL 60014

Memorial Service: Friday, August 19, 11 a.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, 76 W Crystal Lake Ave, Crystal Lake IL

Interment: Private