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Peter Kroll Obituary

Peter Kroll, 74, of Chicago, IL passed away Sunday, December 5, 2021 at home surrounded by his girls. Known by his legions of fans as Highland Park High School football legend, he is celebrated by his loved ones as the best kind of person you could ever hope to call your father, husband, friend, or relative.

This spectacular man sure knew how to live, and bravely fighting cancer for the last six years, he showed us how to die with intention, optimism, grace, and infinite love. He had a smile that lit up a room, a heart that glowed brilliantly, and the ability to see the positive in everything and everyone. To know him was to love him – and he will be leaving a big Pete Kroll shaped hole in the hearts of so many, especially his wife and very best friend, Torrie Flink; daughters, Kim Wolfberg (Kevin), Olivia Belmonti (Gary), and Vanessa Flink-Larsen; grandchildren, Oliver, Thomas, and Margaret Wolfberg and Fiona, Luca, and Celeste Belmonti. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Dana Kroll, with whom we hope he is reunited and partying brilliantly as only Pete and Dana know how to do. Fortunately, he leaves a legacy of joy, adventure, connection, and beautiful memories for all of us here to honor and share.

Details for the celebration of his life will be available at: www.PeteStrong.com as they are available. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Zacharias Center, 4275 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee, IL 60031. Or via: justgiving.com/campaign/InMemoryofPeterKroll

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune from Dec. 8 to Dec. 9, 2021.

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5 Entries

Gordy (Gershon) Wolf, Class of 1968

February 22, 2025

I was a freshman in 1964 when Pete's football team was the pride of H.P., even beating Evanston that year. Pete was an integral part of that squad, probably the best that ever represented HPHS in football. I didn't know him personally, but 'Sweet Pete' had to be exceptional to marry Torrie Flink (class of '68). My belated condolences. ~ Gershon Wolf

Alex Beiriger

December 8, 2021

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of Pete! He was such a kind, friendly, and hilarious man with a huge heart. I definitely remember how he made everyone smile and laugh at all of ZCenter's fundraisers and always remembered important things about every one of the staff members when he came to visit.
I hope that your happy memories of him will bring you comfort in this sad time.

Leslie Sytsma

December 8, 2021

Please accept my sympathy on the loss of Pete. He was a good friend of my boss (Rick K) and I knew him through Rick. I knew him a long time ago but loved him.

Terry Sedik

December 8, 2021

Such a kind and generous teammate and friend. My admiration held strong for over 60 years. Thank you Pete for being you. May peace be with you.

Bob Gorman

December 8, 2021

Your Father was a mensch, kind, thoughtful, respectful and had a great sense of humor. I am a textile salesman who had the pleasure of working with your father and grandfather. I will always remember them with fondness. I started as a kid, my father was in the business as well, so we had a connection and a mutual respect. Peter always included me in discussions and asked my opinion on fabrics even though I was the youngest and least experienced person in the room. I once asked him why he was so nice to which he exclaimed it was because he was in a house full of women! My heartfelt condolences to you all, may the memories you shared keep a smile on your faces and a light in your hearts. Peace to you.

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