William E. Carey

Obituary's Biography:

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of William E. Carey, who left us peacefully from the comfort of his home on February 20th, 2025. Known for his sharp wit and generous heart, he was loved by all who had the pleasure of crossing his path.

An aficionado of cigars, aspiring pool shark, and lover of life, Bill was never without a story, a laugh, or a piece of advice. He was fluent in sarcasm and had a knack for saying exactly what was on his mind. Often found in his workshop, Bill was a true master of many trades. As a woodworker, his hands shaped more than just furniture — he crafted legacies, custom pieces that will live on as heirlooms for generations to come. His keen eye as a photographer captured the very essence of life, each photo revealing the beauty he saw in the world around him. Bill was an eternal optimist, as evidenced by his lifelong belief that the Bears, Hawks, or Cubs would someday have a winning season.

It was Bill’s love for his family that truly defined his legacy—everyone who knew him believed they were his favorite, because, in his heart, they truly were. As a husband, father and brother, Bill was the oak tree; a source of unwavering love and support. Though he has left this world, his spirit lives on in every joke he cracked, every hand he shook, every person lucky enough to feel his love. 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Juliana; his children, Marya Pleasant (Lew), Fiona Carey, Breanne York (Ernie); his grandkids, Ivan, Eloise, Kyle, Ginny (Ben), Lauren (Ryan), and Hannah; his great-grandchildren, Ella Mae, Ben, Lulu, Bowen, and Tille; his siblings, Lynn, Pat (Daryl), Kathy (Bob), Sue (Mike), Clif (Shauna), Beth (Mike), Lauri (Mike) and many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Fran Carey. 

A celebration of his life will be held to honor Bill on Sunday, March 2^nd at 129 Center Cut in Grayslake from 12pm-3pm. We invite all who loved him to join us as we remember the man who loved just as much as he was loved. It was Bill’s wish that family and friends would engage in a Dean Martin-style Roast in his memory, so those who wish to share their funniest, most outrageous, and most cherished Bill Carey stories will be welcome to do so. 

May his memory be a blessing and a comfort, and may his laugh echo forever in our hearts.

All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.