Allen L. Kracower

Allen L. Kracower, 85, businessman, beekeeper, animal whisperer, and family man, rode off into the sunset surrounded by love.

Born March 18, 1940, Allen spent over 50 years building a successful career in zoning and land planning – but the real masterpiece of his life was everything he built outside the office. A man of endless curiosity, he could negotiate a zoning ordinance by morning and be in his barn by afternoon. Allen somehow found room not just for family but for every animal imaginable – from horses and goats to parrots, bunnies, and a revolving cast of beloved cats and dogs. If it had a heartbeat, Allen probably took care of it. His best friends were truly four-legged.

His hobbies were far and wide. He was a proud breeder of Great Pyrenees, a cross-country skier, a boater, a golfer, a Harley Davidson rider, and a man who could whip up an amazing apple pie and cheesecake. From smoking meat to caring for beehives, Allen's hobbies were as varied as possible. He adored the outdoors – trees, birds, and the simple beauty of the sky, especially from his Arizona yard where he'd sit in peace and soak in the sun. He spent his last years staring up at the old oak trees in his yard and talking with G-d every morning. He believed the trees were grounded and the branches reached up to the heavens. Though the world has lost a great businessman, Allen's family has lost their greatest teacher, and his community has lost one of its finest. We take comfort in knowing he's now holding court somewhere, probably making a deal with the angels and telling them they're doing things "almost right."

Allen is reunited with his cherished parents (Sara and George Kracower), his favorite horse, Consultant's Choice, and his favorite dogs, Duffy and Vinnie. He leaves behind a devoted family: his devoted wife and best friend Caryn (nee' Foss) for 60 wonderful years, loving father of Jennifer (Tom) Cafferty and Julie (John) Bellina; cherished "Grampie Abbie" to Alyssa and Kyle Cafferty and Jack and Liam Bellina; adored twin sister Audrey ( the late Joe) Bernstein and beloved son in law of the late Allan Foss.

A celebration of his remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025; 2:30 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL. Interment Shalom Memorial Park. In his honor, have a milkshake, pet a dog, wear your comfiest pajama pants, and share a story – Allen would've loved that. Donations in his honor should be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org, both of which he supported until his last breath. For the link to access the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.