Murali Sunkara 

February 15, 1967 – October 10, 2026

Murali Sunkara, son of Krishna and Vijaya, was born on February 15, 1967, in Vijayawada, India, and passed away on October 10, 2026, at the age of 59.

Murali grew up in Vijayawada and completed his schooling there through the 12th grade. Driven and ambitious from a young age, he earned his undergraduate degree in engineering from Manipal University. In 1989, he moved to the United States to pursue his dreams, earning two master’s degrees from Ohio University, in industrial production and computer science.

Over a career spanning more than 25 years, Murali became a trusted executive and strategic advisor to CEOs and leadership teams across healthcare, financial services, aviation, supply chain, and manufacturing. Leaders turned to him when the stakes were high. Most recently, he served as Chief of Staff at SMG Group in the Chicago area.

Family was central to Murali’s life. He is survived by his two daughters, Anisha and Jia; his children's mother, Aparna; his parents, Krishna and Vijaya; his brother, Bhaskar (Haritha); his sister, Vasumathi (Murali); and countless other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

Murali was the fun uncle every kid hoped for, always ready to play, always ready with a joke, and gifted with a laugh that made everyone around him laugh too. He was also a true foodie. Anyone who shared a meal with him remembers the plates he cleared, especially a good non-vegetarian feast, which he enjoyed so much he would finish it and lick the plate clean. He loved rock music, and it was a constant soundtrack to his life.

Murali was deeply proud of his Indian heritage and passionate about its culture and philosophy. He was a devoted student of Hinduism, and loved the gods and goddesses, Sai Baba, and the Mahabharata, and he loved discussing them with anyone willing to listen. He was fascinated by questions about life, purpose, and what lies beyond. His curiosity and love of understanding stayed with him throughout his life.

Murali was also a survivor. When he faced cancer, he met it with the same resilience and determination that marked his whole life, and he persevered through every challenge it brought.

Murali’s life was a testament to ambition, perseverance, generosity, and love for his family. He showed up for his loved ones without hesitation, and we will forever cherish his kind soul, his strength, and the care he brought into each of our lives. His spirit will live on in the memories we hold dear and in every life he touched.

Murali's visitation will take place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 12:00 until 1:00 p.m., located at McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium, 530 West Boughton Road, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60440. Puja will immediately proceed his visitation, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Cremation ceremony will conclude his funeral services.

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Funeral arrangements entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium.