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BORN
1960
DIED
2020
Christopher Sperry Obituary
Chris was born on 7/5/60 in Palo Alto, CA to George Walter Sperry and Barbara Clarke Sperry. Raised in Bushnell, IL, Chris graduated from Macomb High School and went on to the University of Illinois. Graduating with a degree in Agricultural Economics, Chris continued his education at Western Illinois University, earning his MBA, then attended the Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago.
Chris began his career at Mcmaster-Carr Supply Company and worked for a number of similar supply firms. He finished his career as a Vice President and Company Officer at Grainger, headquartered in Lake Forest, IL. As part of his semi-retirement, Chris engaged in private equity work and co-founded the small investment firm, Hurdle Barriers, LLC.
While Chris battled a number of different cancers over the past ten years, he refused to let his status as a patient define him. A man of true grit, Chris went on to finish the Madison, Wisconsin Ironman in 2012 shortly after receiving radiation treatment and invasive surgery in addition to multiple rounds of chemotherapy.
Chris married his high school sweetheart, Carol McConkey Sperry in 1984. Chris and Carol raised their three children in Lake Bluff IL. He is preceded in death by his father George and his step-father, Paul Carson Jr. Chris is survived by his wife, Carol McConkey Sperry of Sunset, SC and Chicago, IL, son and daughter-in-law Ben and Sydney Sperry of Austin, TX, son Will Carson Sperry of Greenville, SC, and daughter, Ella Jude Sperry of Chicago, IL. He is also survived by his mother, Barbara C. Carson, and his sisters, Sabrina Walkosz, Jane Finley, Sarah Surgent, and Alison Vawter.
Due to COVID-19, the family will not be holding an in-person service for the time being. They will, however, be in touch with those closest to the family with plans for a virtual remembrance in the coming days.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Sperry
5 Entries
Bob Nelson
October 3, 2022
Sheila and I often think of Chris and the great times we had together. We hope the entire Sperry family is well!
Bob Nelson
October 3, 2021
It is hard to believe that it has been one year since Chris passed. I was just thinking about him 2 days ago when I was playing cards with my family. I remember how well Chris played cards and how much fun we had playing cards with Chris. I also think of Chris and Carol and the family when I walk by their former home in Lake Bluff. We had a lot of fun at parties there and watching the parade on the 4th of July. We miss Chris and wish all the Sperrys peace and happiness.
Theresa Johnson
January 8, 2021
We met Chris through his curiosity about our ostomy based company. We could tell immediately what a special person he was - thoughtful, inquisitive, family oriented and just salt-of-the-earth. We are so sorry to hear of his passing and our love and prayers go out to his family. There is no doubt this wonderful man blazed a trail while on this earth. Though our time with him was brief, he made a lasting impression on us as well as every person who crossed his path...
Bob Nelson
October 12, 2020
Needless to say, Chris was a great person and a tremendous fighter. We are lucky to have known him. Our hearts go out to the entire Sperry family. With deepest sympathies, The Nelson family.
Thomas Berry
October 11, 2020
Chris's strength and perseverance have been and will always be an inspiration. My thoughts and best wishes to his family who for the past decade have shown incredible strength in fighting along side him. Rest in peace uncle you will be missed.
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