Charles "Charlie" Ungar

Karchi (Karoly) "Charlie" Ungar, 96, of Buffalo Grove, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. A Holocaust survivor and proud American, Charlie's life was a remarkable journey of courage, resilience, creativity, and love. He was Hungarian, born in Czechoslovakia on January 1, 1929. He endured unimaginable loss at a young age-his father was killed in World War II, and his beloved sister Klari perished in Auschwitz at age 13. His mother, Paula Ungar, was the only other member of their family to survive. Liberated in 1945, Charlie came to the United States at age 17 determined to build a new life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and through hard work and perseverance, he graduated from art school and built a successful career as a freelance commercial artist, working for companies including Sears and Quill. His creativity and work ethic became a lifelong source of pride for his family. Charlie was a passionate Chicago sports fan, cheering faithfully for the Cubs and Bears no matter the season. His quick wit, humor, and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Jeff (the late Therese) Ungar and Cory (Mark) Genson; grandchildren Steven (Kelly), David (Ashley), Karen (Ryan), and Michael (Sadie); and great-grandchildren Addy, Emmy, Everly, Cameron, and Elena. His life stands as a testament to perseverance, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, www.ilholocaustmuseum.org. Chapel service Wednesday, November 12, 2:30 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, 1700 W. Rand Rd, Arlington Heights. Interment to follow at Shalom Memorial Park. For shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org, 847-255-3520.