Carl H. Nauert III

Carl H. Nauert, III of Forest Park, formerly of River Forest, known affectionately to his family as Herb, passed away on February 21, 2026. Carl was born on July 29, 1955, in Evansville, Indiana. His family moved to Homewood, Illinois when he was in second grade and after graduating from Homewood Flossmoor High School in 1973, Carl pursued higher education at Purdue University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in busines management in 1977.

Carl’s love for music was nurtured from an early age by both of his parents. He learned to play clarinet, and he joined the Homewood Flossmoor High School marching band. While in college he played clarinet in the Purdue Orchestra Band.

After graduating from Purdue, Carl began his professional journey with IBM as a Systems Engineer, demonstrating his remarkable talent and work ethic from the very start. Carl’s work with IBM allowed him to connect with a whole network of professionals, and he was highly regarded by his colleagues for his integrity and leadership. He was a mentor to many, sharing his knowledge and experience with grace and humility. Carl retired from IBM as a Systems Engineering Manager after 30 years of service.

Carl’s personal life was as rich and fufflling as his professional career. He met his loving wife, Julie, at IBM, and they were married on May 24, 1981. Carl and Julie stood by each other’s side, sharing both life’s challenges and its many joys for over 44 years. His brothers, Robert (Heidi) and Michael (Margo) and brother-in-law John (Debbie) will cherish the memories of the bond they shared. Carl’s infuence as a beloved uncle was evident in his relationships with his niece Katie (Bryan) and nephews Greg, Zack (Hannah), Jim (Crystal), Alex (Jeannette) and Andrew (Cody). His great-niece and nephews, Brayton, Kennedy, Landon, Jensen, Theo and Nico, will remember him for his playful spirit and the wisdom he imparted.

Carl’s extended family, including his beloved Aunt Barbara, his cousins Carla (Mike), Gayle (Tom), Dawn (Tim), Greg (Marcia), Helen, Susie (Tim) and Charley (Randi), will fondly recall his generous nature and his willingness to offer support whenever it was needed. His presence at family gatherings was always a source of joy and comfort, and his absence will be deeply felt. Carl was preceded in death by his parents, sister in-law Donna and her husband Mark and his nephew Joshua.

Carl’s favorite pastimes included playing golf with his buddies on the weekends, playing his clarinet in a woodwind quintet at church and enjoying camping trips with his wife, Julie, more recently traveling in their RV to visit many of our National and State Parks and watching the Cubs and Bears games. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles playing computer games and in his spare time.

Carl and Julie joined First United Church of Oak Park in 1994 and over the years Carl has played an important role in the church, generously giving his time and talents serving on numerous committees and supporting his fellow members as well as the wider community in many ways. His compassion and cheerful nature will be greatly missed by everyone in his church family.

As we reflect on Carl’s life, we remember a man who embodied the best of us. He was a devoted husband, a supportive brother, a cherished uncle, and a loyal friend. Carl’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and the countless ways he enriched our lives. He approached each day with enthusiasm and an open heart, and his impact on those around him was both profound and enduring.

A memorial service to celebrate Carl’s life will take place at First United Church of Oak Park sometime in late May or early June. In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in his memory or donating to one of the charities that were important to Carl.

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