Dr. Alfred "Doc" Karnicki

Dr. Alfred "Doc" Karnicki, a long-time resident of Lake Forest and practicing psychiatrist, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on June 18, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on April 18, 1940, on Chicago’s Northwest Side, Alfred was the son of Alfred Michael Karnicki Sr. and Laura Szarek, and the stepson of Edward Szarek. He was the beloved brother of Dianne (Stan) Herzog and Daniel (Liz) Karnicki. He graduated from Weber High School in 1958 before attending Loyola University’s Lake Shore Campus for his pre-medical studies. He earned his medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in 1965, beginning a distinguished career in medicine that would span more than six decades. On June 6, 1964, he married Audrey Rogowski, the love of his life and partner of 56 years. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Matthew, Sharon, and Michael. Following medical school, Alfred trained in psychiatry at Cook County Hospital before serving in the United States Public Health Service during the Vietnam War. His service brought his young family to San Francisco, California. In 1970, they returned to Illinois and settled in Lake Forest, where he established his private psychiatric practice. For more than 50 years, he remained deeply committed to his profession and provided dedicated care to countless patients across the community. Lake Forest was home to Alfred for over half a century. He found immense joy in being surrounded by family and watching his grandchildren grow up right next door. "Doc" was a legendary fixture at the ice rink; he loved watching his sons play hockey from the time they first laced up their skates through their adulthood, famously never missing a single game. Nothing made him happier than settling in to watch his favorite teams, especially the Cubs and the Blackhawks. An avid softball player, Alfred spent decades in the Men's Softball league at Deerpath Park, creating a remarkable multi-generational legacy. He began playing alongside friends as a young man, later shared the field with his sons and son-in-law, and eventually managed and played on teams with his grandsons. For Alfred, the heart of the game was the camaraderie. He loved sharing stories of his days on the diamond, always expressing his deep affection for the teammates he played with across his beloved teams: Armageddon, McCormicks, Silver Dollar, Lantern, The Melonheads, and The Lawnmowers. To Alfred, those who shared the dugout were more than just teammates—they were lifelong friends. Alfred was a man of intense focus, channeling a meticulous discipline into his passions. This was most visible in the beautiful, pristine gardens he created around his home, which were widely admired throughout the neighborhood. To know "Doc" was to know a true, unforgettable character. He was unapologetically opinionated and carried a famously gruff, sometimes grumpy exterior. Armed with a sharp, unfiltered wit, he could be delightfully inappropriate at times, always ready with a joke, a clever remark, or a colorful story. Yet, despite his stubborn ways—or perhaps because of them—he was incredibly well-liked by everyone who knew him. He brought an authentic, rare color to the lives of generations of family friends. Dr. Karnicki will be remembered for his fierce integrity, his absolute devotion to his family, and the lasting impact he made on the community. His unique legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the countless lives he touched with his unforgettable presence. Alfred was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Audrey, who passed away in March 2020. He is survived by his children, Matthew (Kristin) Karnicki, Sharon (Michael) Moccia, and Michael Karnicki; his proud grandchildren, Justine Karnicki Porter, Brandon Moccia, Brittany Moccia, and Brett Moccia; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Hayden Porter. Interment will be private at Ft. Sheridan National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life take place at 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM with a Time of Remembrance to begin at 1:00pm at the Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. All who knew and loved "Doc" are warmly welcome share a favorite memory.

Dr. Alfred "Doc" Karnicki

April 18, 1940 - June 18, 2026