Harold “Chris” Christopher Carlstead Jr.

Harold Christopher “Chris” Carlstead Jr., a longtime resident of Flossmoor, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2025, in Willowbrook, Illinois, after a long battle with FTD Frontal Temporal Dementia. Born in Chicago on November 22, 1944, Chris was the eldest of three sons of Harold and Phyllis Carlstead.

A graduate of the University of Denver, Chris earned his CPA and began his career at his father Hal’s accounting firm in Chicago Heights. He later co-founded IDM (Inn Development & Management), growing an extensive hotel portfolio. Known for his entrepreneurial drive and magnetic personality, Chris built enduring relationships throughout his career and life.

Deeply committed to his community, Chris was a longtime supporter of Glenwood School for Boys, now Glenwood Academy, serving students from challenging situations with a focus on providing a safe & nurturing environment to help them grow & succeed. He also generously supported The Cancer Support Center as well. In 1990, Chris played a key role in developing the new baseball stadium at Homewood-Flossmoor High School, a project that continues to serve generations of young athletes today.

Chris never met a stranger and found joy in creating special moments, whether on the golf course, during holidays in Colorado, summers at Diamond Lake, or family trips to Disney World. He cherished every opportunity to be surrounded by loved ones.

Chris was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harold and Phyllis. He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Mary Ann, and their six children: Stephanie Chavira (Jorge), Suzie Burnett (Derek), Harold Christopher Carlstead III - Chris (Stacy), Corey Carlstead (Erin), Chad Carlstead (Meghan), and Caitlin Whiteman (Kyle). He was a proud and loving grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Lily and Zoey Chavira; Delaney and Ashby Burnett; Harold Christopher IV-Kit, Annie, and Audrey Carlstead; Phoebe and Lincoln Carlstead; Will and Weston Carlstead; and Carson and Chloe Whiteman. Affectionately known as “Grandpa Spark,” he brought laughter, adventure, and endless love into their lives.

Chris is also survived by his brothers, Jeff Carlstead and Tom Carlstead (Leslie), as well as many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.

His legacy lives on in the love he poured into his family, the friendships he cultivated, and the joyful memories he created. Chris’s spirit will forever remain at the heart of those who knew and loved him.

Memorial Mass will be held at:

St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church. Friday, November 14, at 11:15 a.m. 306 W. Fourth Street Hinsdale, IL 60521

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to: Glenwood Academy www.glenwoodacademy.org The Cancer Support Centerwww.cancersupportcenter.org