| Graduation Year | Class of 1970 |
| Date of Birth | Jul 24, 1952 |
| Date of Passing | Jun 29, 2024 |
| About | (no additional information) |
| Events | Allan J. Sjoholm, 71, Chemist and Musician 1952-2024 Allan J. Sjoholm, a chemist by profession and a passionate musician, passed away on June 29, 2024, just shy of his 72nd birthday. Al was the son of Antti J. and Seija Sjoholm, Finnish immigrants who arrived in the United States in 1950. His life was marked by a joyful outlook and a mischievous sense of humor, traits that endeared him to all who knew him. Al was raised in Waukegan, where he developed a deep connection to the local music scene. His love for music began in his teens, performing for the first time at the American Legion Hall in downtown Waukegan. He quickly became known for his unique blues guitar stylings and stirring vocals, which earned him a cherished place in the hearts of many. Over the years, Al played in numerous bands, including the popular local group AC Blues, and recorded with the band Blue Condition. Al graduated with honors from Zion-Benton High School in 1970, where he formed a lifelong friendship with William Fishback of Winthrop Harbor, IL. He went on to earn a BS degree in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. Al began his career in chemical coatings in 1975 at Dexter Corporation in Waukegan, IL, and later worked for several other companies, including American Can in Barrington, IL, Celanese Corporation in Louisville, Fuller-O'Brien Corporation in South Bend, IN, and finally Azko Nobel in Zion, IL. His work took him across the United States, but his heart always remained rooted in his hometown. Al is survived by his two sons, Finn Darling (Irene) of Columbus, OH, and Erik Sjoholm (Cassie) of Portland, OR, both of whom he shared with his former wife, Marianne R. Sjoholm. He is also survived by his close friend, Lori Lewis, his nephew Aaron Sjoholm-Beyer (Sarah), and his cousins Carey Orna (Doris) and Diana Mack (Richard). His lifelong friends, Bill and Sue Fishback, along with their extended family, were an important part of his life, as were many other friends and fellow musicians. He was predeceased by his parents, Antti and Seija Sjoholm, and his brother, Paul Sjoholm. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Greenbelt Cultural Center, 1215 N Green Bay Road, North Chicago, IL, on Sunday, August 18 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The event will include an open jam session starting at 3:00 pm, a fitting tribute to Al's enduring love of music. |
