Aybars Emsun

Aybars Emsun was a loving husband, brother, uncle, coworker, and friend. Aybars, 63, passed away unexpectedly on August 28th. He is survived and deeply missed by his wife of 24 years, Tracy (Raasch); his brother, Giray Emsun; sisters-in-law, Beth Emsun and Debra Korkmaz; and his nieces and nephews: Aiyana Emsun, Ozan Emsun (Brooke), John Emsun, Teoman Korkmaz, Filiz Korkmaz, Paul Raasch, Mitchell Raasch, and Joe Raasch. He is also survived by his mothers-in-law, Peggy Raasch and Diana Raasch and the Sandahl family. Aybars was predeceased by his beloved parents and brother, Kazim Emsun; Nihal Emsun; and his brother, Ufuk Korkmaz.

Aybars was born in Ankara, Turkey and moved to the United States when he was 15 years old. He spoke fondly and told wonderful stories about growing up in Turkey with his loving family. Aybars graduated from Highland Park High School, where he served as president of the International Club.

He earned a degree in Biology from Cornell College in Iowa. His career included 15 years at Abbott Laboratories and, most recently, 14 years at Woodstock Sterile Solutions as a Senior Validation Engineer.

Aybars had a wide range of interests and passions. He loved attending concerts and was a great connoisseur of all musical genres. He had a passion for cooking and was known for his delicious Turkish dishes, cheesecakes and Jenna's Berry Pie. Aybars was an avid reader, especially of science fiction and fantasy. He also enjoyed camping, hiking and kayaking. A devoted Chicago sports fan, he especially loved following the Cubs and Bears. He was also a big soccer enthusiast. In his younger years, Aybars played Ultimate Frisbee with a group of life-long friends.

Aybars was knowledgeable about many subjects and had a love for science, history and the arts. He cared about the environment and social justice, and he had a special love for animals-especially the sweet family dogs. Aybars donated to conservation and environmental charities, served on the board of Waukegan Friends, and helped raise funds for Rainbow Railroad.

Aybars was cherished throughout his life. Everyone who spent time with him spoke of him with great affection. He made friends easily and valued each of his friendships. Friends and coworkers became family. He had a big, kind heart and was known for his loyalty, generosity and sweet nature. He was curious and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Aybars was a proud brother and uncle. He cared deeply about his family and appreciated every occasion when they gathered. He was especially close to his brother, Giray and sister-in-law Beth and his nieces and nephews were very dear to him. Aybars was adored by his wife, Tracy, who considered him a true and treasured gift in her life.

A Memorial Gathering to honor the life of Aybars Emsun will be held on Saturday, October 11th from 1:00 – 4:00 at the Bonnie Brook Golf Course Event Space, 2800 N. Lewis Avenue, Waukegan, IL 60085. In lieu of flowers, donations in Aybars' memory may be made to any one of the following organizations: A Safe Place, The Nature Conservancy, or Waukegan Friends. Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson & Patch Funeral Home. Please sign our online guestbook at www.waukeganfunerals.com For more information, please call 847-623-0495.