George “Gunnar” Carlberg
Passed: July 31, 2020
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George “Gunnar” Carlberg
Passed: July 31, 2020
Obituary
On Friday, July 31st, 2020, George “Gunnar” Carlberg passed suddenly at the age of 65. He was a loving husband to Robin, proud father of Ian and Taylor, fur babies, Suki and Spartacus, brother to Tom (Brunella) Carlberg, sister, Jan Graf and nephews, Andy, Christopher, and Erik. Gunnar was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary, brother Michael and nephew, Peter.
Gunnar was born June 28th, 1955 and raised in Northbrook, IL, a graduate of Glenbrook North High School. Gunnar followed in his father’s footsteps, running his own business as a master carpenter and general contractor.
Gunnar had a zest for life- he was a lover of wine, women, and general debauchery! After years of working weekends at the Bristol Renaissance Faire, he proclaimed himself the “King of the Dancing Gypsies.” Anyone who met Gunnar has a fun story to tell you. He was an unapologetic, well-traveled, larger than life Swede at 6’5”, resembling a Viking. Proud accomplishments include perfecting Gunnar’s Glogg and being Shihan Gangi’s perpetual green belt in martial arts. He was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and often laughing at his own jokes and antics. He was a big kid at heart. No surprise that Halloween was his favorite holiday, creating amazing costumes for himself and his family. The kids in the neighborhood loved to see the funny “eyeball man” who gave out lots of candy (often chocolate – since it was HIS favorite)!
Gunnar was truly one of a kind, unforgettable, compassionate, and kind. His memory will live forever in our hearts and minds.
The family welcomes donations to American Heart Association as an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers.
11 responses to George “Gunnar” Carlberg
Cassandra Gordon says:
August 20, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss! My deepest condolences to your family! ❤
Bridget Nelson says:
August 20, 2020
I am terribly sorry to hear, Robin. WOW, huge loss. Prayers and thoughts to you and your family. I miss seeing you nearly each day and this makes each of those days even more cherish able as life is too short.
Hugs.
Tanya Picard says:
August 20, 2020
I loved Gunnar. He was, in his own distinctive way, a true “Renaissance Man” – master craftsman/carpenter – amazing performer/dancer – martial arts practitioner. I had no idea when we first cast him to be a part of the Gypsy Dancers for the Renaissance Faire that he would become a valued member of our dance company and a true friend. I soon learned, working with him and observing his interactions with myself and others, that he possessed that rare combination of real integrity, compassion, and a hearty zest for life. I think about him often and am so grateful that he was a part of my life and is now in my heart forever.
Shannon Epplett says:
August 20, 2020
Gunnar – you will be missed by everyone who knew you. Robin, Ian, Taylor – I am so sorry for your loss!
john 0xf0rd says:
August 20, 2020
I had the pleasure of knowing Gunner as Friend and fellow humorist .He was an imposing man with a huge heart . there’s nothing he could have asked that I would have turned down Anyone that didn’t know him surely missed out. I was obvious that He love his family with all his heart. Ill miss him and the conversations we had.