Edward L. Kaplan

Edward "Ed" Lawrence Kaplan, 82, of Highland Park, IL, passed away on July 14, 2025.
Born on November 19, 1942, in Chicago, IL, he was preceded in death by his parents Meyer and Bee Kaplan. He is survived by his brother Mark and his sister Felicia. He was a devoted husband to Carol (Kozin) Kaplan for 60 years. He was a loving father to Marty (Amy) and Alan (Michelle), a cherished grandfather to six grandchildren (Jessica, Brett, Drew, Sydney, Dylan and Danielle), and loving brother-in-law to Janice Gordon and uncle to Sandy, Paul, and Ellie.
He will be remembered for his tremendous love and dedication to his family, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his philanthropic efforts to better the world. He had a deep love for learning and a strong desire to help others acquire knowledge and grow. He was the co-founder and CEO of Zebra Technologies, and he took great pride in his many inventions that made the world a better place. Ed's professional accomplishments include such high honors as the High Tech Entrepreneur of the Year, the Chicago Booth Advisory Board and countless high impact board positions throughout Chicagoland. He founded the New Venture Challenge at the University of Chicago which led to the successful launch of several hundred businesses. He also founded the Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Technology on the campus at IIT designed to guide students on a direct path to becoming Chicago's next tech leaders.
While his business accomplishments were noteworthy, his greatest pride and legacy are defined by his love of his family, friends and helping others. His most fulfilling role was being known as an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend. He loved to travel and had incredible adventures with his wife Carol and his family. He was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Cubs and Bulls. He enjoyed music – particularly jazz concerts and evenings at Ravinia.
To honor Ed's memory, donations can be made to IIT or to any charity of your choice. www.iit.edu/givenow. On the dropdown menu – the Kaplan Institute can be selected.
Chapel service Thursday July 17, 2025, at 12:15 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. For the link to virtually view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences, www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.