Chris Van Horn

Jon “Chris” Van Horn (58), Harvard, IL

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Jon “Chris” Van Horn (58) who passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 4, 2024 of natural causes in Harvard, IL. Chris was born October 21, 1965, to Barbara and John Van Horn in Elgin, IL. Chris graduated from Crystal Lake South High School in 1983 and married the love of his life Kathy (Tolley) Foster on October 22, 1988 in Mendota, IL. Chris is preceded in death by his sister Pam, and both of his parents Barb and John. He is survived by his soulmate Kathy, his children Bethany (Kurt) Kraeplin, Jason (Corey) Foster, Sarah (Peter) Shanks, his 8 grandchildren, Becca, Jacob, Riley, Jaylin, Regan, Jaxton, Eli, and Ethan, his 2 great-grandchildren Bradley and Braxton, his brother Michael Van Horn, and many friends.

After high school Chris attended McHenry County College and started his career at Hines Lumber Supply (Edward Hines Lumber Company) where he dedicated himself for 40 years. He married his one true love Kathy and instantly became a dedicated father to Jason and Sarah. Soon his beloved daughter and kindred spirit Bethany was born. Chris' family was everything to him, but he also loved everything outdoors including fishing, kayaking, and exploring nature. He loved to invent new games or activities to keep the kids entertained. He was a problem solver and many lovingly referenced him as “VanGyver” for his creative solutions or gadgets. He always looked forward to his annual guy’s trip to northern Wisconsin where many campfires stories were shared (what happens in WI, stays in WI). He loved spontaneous day trips with Kathy to check out new restaurants, antique stores or estate sales (drink!) where she often found new treasures that he always found a way to fit in the car to bring home. Chris had the most generous heart and would give gifts, treasures or donations to anyone (even strangers) who he thought needed it. He will be deeply missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him. Although he was prepared for any and every situation, he could never prepare us to navigate this world without him.

Chris’s life will be celebrated and honored on Friday, October 11, 2024 at Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home in Harvard IL from 3 pm until 6 pm. A moment of reflection and shared stories will take place at 5:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Chris’s memory to Wisconsin Natural Resources.

 https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/wisconservation

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.