Carter Barry Conlin III

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carter Barry Conlin III, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the age of 39. Beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son, and loyal friend. Though his time with us was far too brief, Carter's extraordinary spirit and boundless love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Carter's greatest joy in life was his family. He was the devoted husband of Ashley (Fratto) Conlin, and the proud, loving father of Jaxon (age 3) and Olivia (age 1). He will be deeply missed by his parents, Barry and Patricia Conlin; his siblings, Mandy (and Mitchell) Bell and Michael Conlin; his grandmother, Lupe Torres; his father- and mother-in-law, William Fratto and Debbie Fratto; his brother-in-law, Nicholas (and Marlee) Fratto; and his cherished nieces and nephews, Arthur Bell, Nathaniel Bell, Grace Bell, and August Fratto. He is also remembered fondly by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank Torres, Carter Barry Conlin Sr., and Grace Conlin.

Carter grew up in Naperville, IL and graduated from Neuqua Valley High School, where his natural charisma and creativity first began to shine. He channeled these gifts into his career as an integral landscape designer, helping grow his father's small business through his exceptional ability to connect with clients and instill confidence in his vision. Carter wasn't just a talented designer with a distinctive style-he was a true people person who transformed outdoor spaces and touched lives in the process.

Carter's greatest joy came from his beautiful wife Ashley and their cherished children. His impact extended far beyond his family, reaching countless best friends and even strangers who were drawn to his magnetic spirit. His unwavering optimism was legendary, and everyone who knew Carter left his presence feeling stronger.

In 2018, Carter received a brain cancer diagnosis that would have broken many people. Instead, he faced treatment with fierce determination and an unshakeable resolve to live life to its fullest-and he did exactly that, embracing every precious moment with gratitude and grace.

When devastating news came in 2024 that his tumor had returned, Carter's courage never wavered. Just four weeks after welcoming his beautiful daughter into the world, he underwent a second brain surgery in May. Despite complications and tumor progression that presented the most difficult treatment options imaginable, Carter fought tirelessly with absolute strength until his final breath. Through it all, he never once complained about his circumstances, expressing only gratitude for the amazing life he had been given.

Carter embodied his self-proclaimed "spirit animal", the Gorilla. Physical strength, a kind heart, gentleness mixed with fierce protection, and unwavering honor and generosity. Just as he had always been everyone's protector in life, his family finds comfort knowing he continues watching over them, his love an eternal shield around those he held most dear.

Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. at Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Homes & Crematory, 24021 Royal Worlington Drive, Naperville, Illinois. Interment will be private.

Memorial contributions in Carter's name may be made to a GoFundMe page established to assist his wife and children.