Obituary of Larry C. Schalk
Larry C. Schalk, age 78, of Bolingbrook, passed away on Monday, April 7th, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was born on September 7th, 1946 in Chicago, IL, to the late Edwin and Evelyn (nee Thompson) Schalk. He was raised in Chicago, IL and graduated from Wells Community Academy High School.
Larry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, having been inducted on January 12, 1966. He served two years of active duty during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Corporal, and continued his commitment in the Marine Corps Reserve until receiving his Honorable Discharge on January 11, 1972. During his service, Larry was awarded the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal in recognition of his dedication and sacrifice.
Larry dedicated 35 years of hard work and loyalty to General Motors in Broadview, Illinois. He began his career as a picker, and stock handler. Through his commitment and strong work ethic, he rose to the role of forklift driver. Larry was a proud member of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 2114, where he stood in solidarity with his fellow union members throughout his career.
Larry (known as Pops to his grandchildren) lived life with energy, joy, and deep connections to the people he loved. A passionate runner for over 30 years, he found peace and purpose pounding the pavement. He also enjoyed recreational basketball and was a proud and skilled bowler, earning two rings for nearly perfect games—an impressive 298 and 299.
Larry cherished time with friends and family, making memories on vacations with his dear friends Pat and Cheryl, weekend getaways to Crivitz, and long weekends with his work friends. Family vacations were especially meaningful, whether traveling with his son and family or visiting his daughter in Los Angeles to escape the Chicago winters. During his time in California, he formed a cherished “Los Angeles Family” with the friends he met along the way.
No distance was too far when it came to supporting his grandchildren—Larry could always be found on the sidelines of their sporting events or applauding their academic achievements with pride. He loved nothing more than gathering with family and extended family for holidays, celebrations, or simply a good time. One of his favorite pastimes was watching and talking sports with his son and grandchildren, sharing knowledge, countless movie lines, laughs, and unforgettable moments. He cherished babysitting his great granddaughter twice a week and could be found sitting for tea parties, swinging on swings, or baking apple turnovers with her.
A fan of classic country music, Larry had a particular love for George Strait, whose songs often played in the background of his most cherished memories and at the age of 70 he tattooed “Damn Strait” proudly on his left arm.
Larry’s life was full of movement, connection, and love—he will be remembered for the energy he brought to everything he did and the joy he found in every moment shared with others.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Magdalena Schalk; his children, Charlie (Gina) Schalk and Carmen Schalk; and his grandchildren, Anthony (Renee) Schalk, Sarah (Kameron) Hargrove, Daniel Schalk, and Nathan Schalk. He was also blessed with two great-granddaughters, Kinsley Hargrove and Maya Schalk.
Larry is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Jerald (Edith) Schalk, Jackie Fortuna, Donna (Michael) Hersick, Edwin Schalk, Marla Porter, Mabel (Martin) Romo, Wanda (Derek) Mathews, Lori (Joe) Soberon, and Jodi Schalk.
On Magdalena’s side of the family, he is survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Anita Gustafson, Fred (MaryAnn †) Pena, Steve (Marie †) Pena, Cecilia (Bill) Gamen, Jim Alvarado, and Peter (Elizabeth) Alvarado.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Evelyn Schalk; his brother, Terry (Colleen) Schalk; and his sister, Susan Gorney. He was also preceded in death by his in-laws, Paul and Sue Alvarado; and brothers-in-law Cyril (Delores †) Pena, Manuel Pena, and Tony Alvarado.
A Memorial Gathering will be held for Larry C. Schalk on Friday, June 20th, 2025, at Fred C Dames Funeral Home, located at 3200 Black Rd (at Essington) from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors held under the auspices of the United States Marine Corps and the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad. As it was his request, cremation rites have been accorded.
For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
