Abraham "Al" Olefsky

Abraham ‘Al’ Olefsky, 89, of Champaign, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, January 13th, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.  Al, or ‘Babe’, as he was known to his three older brothers (deceased), was born on August 8, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, to Sarah and Morris Olefsky.  He is survived by his three daughters; Zoe (Charles) Shapera, Jayne Olefsky, and Hollis (Eric) Karr, and his grandchildren, Arza and Micah Shapera, and Tziporah and Adv Karr.

Al served his country proudly, during the Korean War, as a 1st Class Private, for the United States Army, where he fell in love with the ‘Art of Mechanics’.  His love of cars brought him to Champaign, Illinois in 1963, where he established a home, marriage, new family and a business.  From owning the first Midas Muffler Shop in Champaign to his part-time employment at Prairie Gardens, Al took pride in his work every day.  Al had integrity.  He was generous of heart and dependable to his friends and family.

In addition to his love of cars, Al had a passion for music and ballroom dancing.  He was a charming gentleman, always dapper, with a penchant for wit and humor!  If there was music playing, Al was dancing.  He loved the Fighting Illini, was a season ticket holder, and on game night…he was not to be distracted!

Al’s big hugs, love of life, and love of his children and grandchildren, will be dearly missed.

Please check back periodically on this obituary on Sunset's website for details on his memorial service which will be held at a later date.

Please share memories, photos and videos on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com   In Lieu of flowers, donations in Al's memory may be made to Sinai Temple, 3104 Windsor Rd., Champaign, IL 61822 and/or Carle Foundation Hospital, 611 W Park St, Urbana, IL 61801.

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