Tribute & Message From The Family
Gregory Paul Alfus, 71, passed away suddenly at home on June 9, 2020.
He was born May 15, 1949 in Chicago, to J. Ralph and Marie (Kirwan) Alfus. Greg had many happy memories of growing up with his four siblings "in the country" outside of Crystal Lake in a house his father built.
On Nov. 5, 1977, Greg married Carol Roese. They raised their two children, Claire and Michael, in an old house in Woodstock, which Greg tended with great skill and care. He was a loving and supportive father who took great joy in watching his children come into their own.
For 32 years Greg taught composition and literature at McHenry County College, where he also chaired the English Department and the Academic Success Center. He was known as a dedicated teacher who would go the extra mile for his students.
Greg was a history buff, a fan of classical music, an amateur photographer and an insatiable reader. He loved taking road trips with the family to historical sites and national parks, stopping at colleges along the way and adding to his ever-growing t-shirt collection. In recent years, Greg's favorite pastime was that of doting Grandpa to his granddaughters. Greg will be missed for his generous spirit, his helpful nature and his goofy sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Carol, his children Claire Alfus and Mike (Reshma) Alfus ,his granddaughters, Aria and Riley Alfus, his siblings: Mary Alfus; Dan (Carolyn) Alfus; Tim (Sharon) Alfus; Patty (Jim) McLaughlin; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Greg's life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Home of the Sparrow or WNIJ Public Radio. Those who wish to honor Greg's love of reading are encouraged to purchase a book at Read Between the Lynes in Woodstock, or any independent bookseller.
Condolence & Memory Journal
Greg was one my instructors at MCC in the early 1980's. He always had/made time to answer questions or help with assignments outside of class time. We also had many conversations about music, an interest we both shared. He loaned me record albums from bands I had never heard of and expanded my musical appreciation for other genres that were new to me at the time. It's not often that an instructor makes a lasting impression upon an individual, but Greg did just that. So sorry to hear of his passing, he will be missed by all who knew him.
Posted by
Jeff K - Student June 24, 2020
I met Greg while working as a clerk at Osco. He was always ready with a smile and humor. I remember you too as a caring lady! You have my sympathy Carol. Jeanne Beard
Posted by
Jeanne Beard - Harvard, IL June 20, 2020
I was so very sorry to learn about Gregs passing. My deepest sympathy to Carol and family and Gregs siblings, the Alfus kids I knew growing up in the 1950s and 1960s: Mary, Dan, Tim, and Pat. As a child, I enjoyed so many great times with the Alfus family who lived across the field from us in the country in Crystal Lake. Although Greg and I didnt keep in close contact over the years, I did enjoy seeing him again in Crystal Lake in 2018 and 2019 while visiting his sister Mary. Rest in peace, Greg.
Fondly,
Janet (Yerkey) Martin
Posted by
Janet (Yerkey) Martin - Alexandria, VA - friend June 17, 2020
Met him in 1st grade at St. Thomas. A great guy.
Posted by
Tom Moony - Friend June 16, 2020
Carol, there are no words to tell you how sorry I am for you and your family's loss. Please know that you have my deepest sympathy. Love.
Posted by
Linda Stoeger - Friend June 16, 2020
I was so sad to read this. My condolences to his family. I went to high school with Greg and last saw him at a store in Woodstock. Such a nice person. He will be missed.
Posted by
Christine Kraft - Morgantown, IN - classmate June 16, 2020
Carol and family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. Praying you find comfort and peace during this difficult time. You are loved my friend.
Posted by
Lorrie Brandwein - Crystal Lake, IL - Friend June 16, 2020
My sympathy and prayers for you and your family. Greg always kept your yard so pretty. I enjoyed being neighbors and loved having Mike come play in our yard with Nick. Hope all is well with your family, Carol. Hugs to all, Michelle.
Posted by
Michelle LaBelle - Neighbor June 16, 2020
