Carol F. Kareiva (nee O’Neill) passed away Monday, January 26, 2026, surrounded by family. She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Donald, Sr., son Donald Jr., parents Frances and Simon, brother “Jack”, sister Rosemary Hermann (late Charles), in-laws William and Helen Kareiva and Marilyn Kareiva, as well as nephews Charles, Jr., Kenneth, and Daniel Hermann, and Philip Kareiva and great-niece Nicole Hermann. She is survived by her daughter Karen Dunbar Kareiva, grandson Mike Dunbar, and great-grandson Jack Dunbar, brother-in-law William (Lil) Kareiva, nephew David Hermann, niece Sharon Kareiva, great nieces Danielle (Tim) and Amanda (Alex), as well as great-great nieces Alice Rose and Riley. She was beloved by many close cousins and friends who were very dear to her heart.
Carol was a great cook and loving homemaker to her family while also playing major roles supporting family businesses over the years in roles such as office manager, bookkeeper and restaurant hostess. Carol had a passion for storytelling and wrote dozens of stories for children, including her best-known story “GG The Great Gorilla” which she wrote for her grandson. She was especially proud of her free blog, CarolKStories.com, that showcased several of her short stories that she wanted to share with everyone, young and old. Carol was always a down-to-earth popular figure, forming relationships and friendships wherever she went. She always ensured that those she cared about were fed, happy, and secure. Her warmth, charm, comedic fun loving and giving nature will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.
Visitation will take place Friday, January 30, 2026 from 3pm-8pm at McInerney Funeral Home, 4635 South Wallace Avenue in Chicago's Canaryville neighborhood where Carol was born and raised. Additional visitation will be held Saturday morning, January 31st from 9-10am, followed by mass at St. Gabriel’s Church, 600 West 45th Street, Chicago, IL and internment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 6001 West 111th Street, Alsip, IL.
GUESTBOOK
Our deepest sympathies to the entire family of Carol. She was our cousin through marriage. We remember her as being a loving and kind person. Carol loved her husband, Don, and children, grandchild, and great grandchild dearly. Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Prayers.... Love, -LaVonne and Rich Maurisak
