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A former reporter for the Quad-City Times died from injuries he suffered after he was struck June 10 by a car.
Karl Oxnevad, 55, of Oak Park, Illinois, died June 11 at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood, Illinois.
He was employed at the Quad-City Times from 1986-1989.
Oxnevad grew up in DeKalb, Illinois, and attended Northern Illinois University, where he wrote for the Northern Star. He later earned a master’s degree from the University of Illinois, Springfield. He worked for publications in Illinois and Iowa.
He was known here as Wordslinger.
Karl had disappeared from the blog and commenters were asking about him, but I just figured he went on vacation to his summer haunt in Michigan or somewhere. I e-mailed and texted him and never heard back, but I didn’t think to Google his name until a mutual friend called me with the bad news this afternoon.
Karl and I took a class together back at Sangamon State. He was in the Public Affairs Reporting program and I was a Political Studies major with no real direction in life. We communicated regularly by text and email, and we talked often about getting together, but life always somehow intervened.
* From Karl’s obit…
Oxnevad, Karl Kristian Age 55, of Oak Park, IL passed away on June 11, 2019 at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, IL. He was born on December 3, 1963 in Rockford, IL, the son of Henrik and Ester (Nese) Oxnevad.
Karl grew up in DeKalb, IL, the youngest of five children. Karl attended Northern Illinois University, where we wrote for the Northern Star. He later received a master’s degree from the University of Illinois Springfield. He had a long career of reporting and working for publications across Illinois and Iowa.
Karl was an avid reader and writer, and you could always find him with a book in his hand. Some of his favorite subjects included politics and history, and he was always up for a re-read of his favorite books. He loved to tell stories and always got a kick out of making people laugh.
He was a lifelong fan of Chicago sports teams, and took pride in watching his children perform both onstage and on the sports field. He loved to travel around the United States and he cherished vacations spent with his wife and children in Ludington, MI. Karl loved his family dearly, and nothing made him happier than spending quality time with the people he loved the most.
Karl is survived by his wife Susan of Oak Park, IL, children Bradley of Chicago, IL, Erik of Traverse City, MI, and Emma of Oak Park, IL; his siblings, Rasmus (Sharon) Oxnevad and Rolf (Maureen) Oxnevad of DeKalb, IL., Louise (Dave) Nelson of Barrington Hills, IL, and Emily (Bill) Logan of Morrison, CO; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Henrik and Ester.
* Here he is…
I’m just too stunned to write anything more about Karl right now. He helped make this website what it is today and I will forever be indebted.
His obituary asks for donations to “members of the Oxnevad family, to be put towards continuing higher education,” so I’ll work on getting that info to you.
Right now, I think I’m just gonna take a little time away from the computer to think about someone who had a huge impact on this state without hardly anyone knowing who he really was.
posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 1:52 pm
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Too sad for words…What a tremendous loss.
Comment by Dotnonymous Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 1:56 pm
This is awful, what a huge loss.
Comment by The Captain Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 1:56 pm
Oh my god.
CapFax isn’t just Rich (though obviously you’re indispensable). It’s all the commentators who’ve been around to see and learn and try to teach. That was Wordslinger. Such a smart commentator. What a tremendous loss.
This blog will never be the same.
Comment by Arsenal Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 1:57 pm
Wow, he will be missed; to imagine I probably bumped into him at the farmers market, or possible at SSU.
Comment by the Edge Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 1:59 pm
As someone who has commented here under various pseudonyms over the past dozen or more years, I can say I will sincerely miss him.
Wordslinger was definitely “part of the publication,” so to speak. Along with Steve Schnorf, and Arthur Anderson. Such a tragic few years here for folks in the Illinois political commentary world.
Maybe it seems like more than it is because we are all more connected now through this medium… but it is a frequent loss.
Comment by Ok Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:00 pm
Condolences to his wife and children. He will be missed on here for his wit.
Comment by Smalls Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:01 pm
A significant contributor to this site, and his thoughts were well-thought. Condolences to his family.
Comment by Bogey Golfer Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:01 pm
This is horrible. There’s no point in being Irish if you don’t know that the world is going to break your heart eventually.
Comment by Southern_Dawg Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:01 pm
Oh no!!!
I’m very sorry for you loss Mr. Miller.
This will make all of our lives a little less informed and colorful.
Comment by Try-4-Truth Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:02 pm
Oh no. So sorry to hear this, for his family/friends’ sake and for ours. A true Internet Legend.
Comment by Graybeard Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:02 pm
I feel sick to my stomach right now. Shock isn’t a strong enough word. His family is certainly in my prayers. Godspeed Wordslinger.
Comment by Demoralized Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:02 pm
Oh my God this is so horrible (crying right now). So sad for everyone, for his family, for Rich, for the Capitol Fax community. He can never be replaced.
Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:02 pm
Part of the joy of reading this blog is wondering who the people and personalities are behind the postings. Wordslinger’s wit, knowledge, and ability to turn a phrase into incredible prose were beyond approach. He was one of the names you would search for in the comments section because you always knew that his take on things would be insightful and cause you to think about things a bit differently. His words will leave behind a legacy which can’t be matched. To say that he will be missed around here is an incredible understatement.
Comment by Pundent Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:02 pm
He and AA were way way way too young.
Comment by Not a Billionaire Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:04 pm
I remember Karl way back when he was in the PAR program. Another good one gone way too soon…..
Comment by Wylie Coyote Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:05 pm
I came here to post, basically, exactly what Arsenal said very well up above.
Comment by Father Ted Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:06 pm
Oh my God, What horrible news.
Comment by downstateR Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:07 pm
May he rest in peace. I am so sorry for his family.
Comment by Blue Dog Dem Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:08 pm
My condolences to his friends and family. Don’t forget to reach out to loved ones whom you may not have spoken to recently. Life is short.
Comment by ste_with a v_en Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:08 pm
That’s sad.
He was an intelligent person with a capability to take complex issues and break them down so they could be more easily understood.
Comment by btowntruth from forgottonia Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:08 pm
All I can say is RIP, what a loss.
Comment by Give Me A Break Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:10 pm
I’ve only been around this blog for a couple of years, and this news is just stunningly awful. Along with a select few he was the heart and soul of this community. He held people accountable as only he could, and he will be missed.
Sympathies to his family and all those here.
Comment by SSL Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:10 pm
OH NO!
I had no idea that Karl / Wordslinger was so young. He has the sage wisdom of a much older and experienced man. I am so sorry to hear this news, not only for the CapFax community, but especially for his family.
Comment by Jake From Elwood Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:10 pm
Heart sank when I saw his name up top.
Always witty. Backed up his statements with facts. Will be missed.
Comment by City Zen Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:12 pm
Oh, that’s awful.
Like many of us, I knew him only as a commenter here, and so appreciated his knowledge and wit.
This is a great loss to the blog, but, of course, more of a loss to his family. I thank them for sharing him with us, and my deepest condolences.
Comment by JoanP Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:12 pm
Voices such as his are what we need more of during this divisive political climate. He’ll be sorely missed.
Comment by Chito Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:12 pm
For someone I never met, I sure will miss him. I only started paying attention to politics and this blog around the middle of Quinn’s second term. I’ve visited the blog nearly every day since and always sought out WS’s comments. He literally taught me more about politics and journalism in that time than I could’ve learned in six years of college. His comments/feedback could occasionally be biting but his observations were nearly always spot-on. Not to mention he was one of the funniest dudes I’ve ever read. Few could make me laugh out loud like he could. I respected him a great deal and would’ve loved to have spent a few hours picking his well-versed brain. I hope his family sees this post so they know what an impact he made on folks like me who never met him. He was THE main reason I came to this blog. May God rest his soul and provide peace and comfort to his family and all who loved him.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:12 pm
Hardly a day went by that I didn’t read something he wrote on this blog. The loss feels personal. Condolences to his family and friends.
Comment by Nova Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:12 pm
Never met the guy and I’m choking back tears right now.
Comment by Simple Simon Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:13 pm
His wit and insight will truly be missed. He was definitely a poster I read and respected.
Comment by illinifan Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:15 pm
Terrible news. A profound and insightful voice here silenced. Godspeed word, and condolences to his family and friends.
Comment by Ron Burgundy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:17 pm
My condolences to his family. I will miss WS (aka Karl’s) wit.
Comment by Jocko Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:18 pm
When I read his stuff here I pictured a guy about my age (70) with a truckload of experience effortlessly put into words that were succinct, insightful, LOL, piercing, kind, and so much more - all depended on the issue at hand. Gone at 55 is so sad. Condolences. We will miss you Wordslinger.
Comment by Oh No Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:19 pm
Stunned silence. I’m a 3rd on Arsenal’s comments.
Comment by L.A. Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:19 pm
Terrible, terribly sad news. He added so much to the CapFax community.
Comment by Moe Berg Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:20 pm
Oh, man. Terrible. Condolences to his family and friends.
Comment by Bill F. Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:21 pm
Haven’t been posting for a long time - heard from a friend about Wordslinger all I can say is RIP & thoughts and prayer to his family.
Comment by Texas Red Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:22 pm
That’s awful. I always thought his comments reasonable and level-headed. He will be missed greatly.
Comment by Ambrose Chase Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:22 pm
Very sad news. What a terrible loss for this blog and the community of regular commenters. RIP Wordslinger.
Comment by charles in charge Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:22 pm
NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO
Comment by Soccermom Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:22 pm
What a kick in the teeth. Wordslinger’s wisdom will be sorely missed.
May his memory be for a blessing.
Comment by Northsider Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:23 pm
Of all the times to lose a commentor who, for me, epitomized (usually) respectful discourse and novel thinking, this time is particularly tough. I will remember the times when Word and I agreed, the times we disagreed, and the times he taught me something. While somewhat acerbic and dry in his humor, I could always rely on him to stand up for decency and etiquette, which is a unique quality in the world today.
Comment by Just Another Anon Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:23 pm
I too enjoyed his knowledgeable and interesting posts.
I’m sorry.
Comment by NoGifts Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:24 pm
Thank you for this post. Condolences to friends and family. Whatever our politics, our stay here is brief; take care of yourselves and each other.
Comment by Ed Higher Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:25 pm
If anyone merited an eponymous CapFax award, it was Wordslinger. A very sad day indeed.
Comment by Skeptic Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:26 pm
That is terrible news and his loss was already noticed even before we knew what had happened. 2019 is a tough year for the blog with Arthur Anderson and now this. Thoughts and prayers for the family.
Comment by JT Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:26 pm
I read the comments many times every day. Lots of good commenters, but some are simply beyond good, beyond great. Those folks are why I spend so much time here. Mostly to learn, occasionally to add. Wordslinger was one of the best. One of those who, if I only had time to skim, I would look for. One of those who, when I post, I would hope to get a response from.
So sad to learn he is gone. But, so fortunate to have benefited from his contributions.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:27 pm
He and I kept meaning to get together for coffee, and we never did because we were both “so busy.” WHEN WILL I EVER LEARN THAT HUMAN BEINGS ARE FRAGILE AND CAN DISAPPEAR WHILE WE’RE “SO BUSY”? I am heartsick.
Comment by Soccermom Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:27 pm
Rest peacefully Karl/Wordslinger. A total shock, his contributions will be sorely missed.
Comment by Buford Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:27 pm
Wordslinger’s loss leaves an empty space. His talent and wit enhanced the blog and can never be replaced.
Condolences to all his family and friends.
Comment by Wensicia Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:29 pm
The words pain and loss are not sufficient. Thank You Wordslinger. Your comments and insights will be long remembered.
Comment by Anon221 Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:29 pm
What a great loss for all of us and his family! I will miss his pithy contributions here. Folks, if any of you ever needed proof that Rich’s posters here are real, and not made-up characters, here’s a golden example. RIP, Word…
Comment by Gantt Chart Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:30 pm
Heartbreaking to lose such a great mind and writer. He will be missed.
Comment by Deadbeat Conservative (please do not block) Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:31 pm
My mental picture of word as a time weathered sage did not match the young man taken from us way to soon.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
He will be greatly missed here.
Comment by work in progress Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:31 pm
This is so heartbreaking.
Comment by Cheryl44 Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:32 pm
Found identity in his words, a sense of friend and spirit of mind. In transcendent moments, I suspect, in his creativity with slinging words, he had met where he is and enjoyed it. Always a beacon.
Comment by vole Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:33 pm
Terrible loss. I read the comments mainly to see what word had to say.
I feel like my writing and my thinking abilities owe a huge amount to the man.
I’ve never been as impacted by an anonymous person as by him, rest easy.
Comment by Excitable Boy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:34 pm
Dang. I’m at a loss for words right now.
Comment by RNUG Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:36 pm
wow, this is just awful. he’ll surely be missed.
Comment by lincoln's beard Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:36 pm
Hit by a car. In the blink of an eye. We are so fragile. Puts this work in perspective
Comment by Distant watcher Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:36 pm
Devastating news. Heartbroken for his family. And heartbroken for Rich and the wonderful family built here.
Comment by MakePoliticsCoolAgain Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:37 pm
A profound loss to this state.
Profound
Word was someone I depended on nearly every day to bring understanding and insight
This is just awful
truly awful.
Comment by Honeybear Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:37 pm
My condolences to Karl and his family. As an avid reader of Capfax including the comments section he will be missed. He had a great institutional knowledge and didn’t pull punches with folks. He backed up what he said and told people if they had mistaken information. It’s rare to find someone who won’t talk history from a political spin but rather lay it all out there for people to know both sides and pass their own judgement.
Comment by DuPage Bard Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:39 pm
Wow. Condolences to his family and R.I.P. to a CapFax legend.
Comment by Casual Observer Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:41 pm
I’m so sorry. I was a big fan. I know how bad I feel and I didn’t even know him. Those of you who do must be devastated.
Comment by Rachel Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:42 pm
Very sad to hear. Always looked forward to reading his contributions to the site. As valued of a member as he was to members of this blog; I’m sure he was significantly even more so to his family. Condolences to his family during this sad tragedy.
Comment by Seats Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:42 pm
Heartbroken. -30-
Comment by Earnest Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:43 pm
Man. Always shot it straight. RIP.
Comment by Not for Nothing Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:44 pm
Deepest condolences to his family and friends, and to you Rich, and all who read his words on this blog. I’m numb at this news. Never met him, never knew who he was, but his like, or dislike, of my posts meant much to me, taught me lots. I can tell you that my husband has heard the words “Wordslinger liked my post,” as I explained just how important he was to all of us. Tragic. I’m so sad.
Comment by Amalia Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:45 pm
Didn’t know him or his background but enjoyed his posts and perspective. Godspeed, Karl.
Comment by Stones Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:45 pm
What a loss. I feel like I’ve lost a friend even though we’ve never met. While I appreciate everyone’s comments on this site, I routinely scrolled down to take in Word’s view on any given subject. We grew up in the same town and I know his brothers, but never until now did I know his identity.
We are all worse off for having lost his decency, knowledge and insights. We are all better off for having had the privilege of his decency, knowledge and insights for these many years.
Rest in peace Karl.
Comment by Tommydanger Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:45 pm
Wow. Sad news. R.i.p.
Comment by Real Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:46 pm
I really don’t know what to say, it’s devastating. Karl was one commenter who, when not around, you couldn’t help but wonder what he was doing.
I think Rich says so much when he said…
“…someone who had a huge impact on this state without hardly anyone knowing who he really was.”
He went under the name “Wordslinger” and even that name couldn’t do the justice to his words.
Biting wit, he could cut to the quick and sharpen the point like no one. He could take a thought, some spin, and turn it on it’s ear to put the focus where it need be. That’s a gift.
He suffered no fools, and what I continually admired about Karl was that his compass of what was right never wavered, and woe be those who decided to rationalize. “See you in church” was not just a thing, Karl had that compass that when he called out those, it didn’t matter who or why, he saw things clearly to leaving this place better than we found it, as he talked often about his parents reminding him of the same.
It’s one thing to be a rational voice, a voice to the moral and ethical, Karl was able to discuss policy and historic perspectives with facts. Hard facts. He could comment and in a pithy worded comment give hard facts to the subject, the spin, even retorts. The knowledge he carried, and using it to speak to things with a belief that right should be not an added value but the centerpiece. He wasn’t a goo-goo, he knew the score, but Karl held accountable the officials.
To Rich’s quote, the impact of the words he wrote, the knowledge and facts he’d add, the officials that read Rich’s blog couldn’t help but take notice of someone who commented head and shoulders above the crowd, and could make one laugh with the perfect line too. There were times where Karl’s comments often led to a change in something that you knew, you knew, that comment struck something, and those officials knew it was a point they needed to change. To say he was “must read” would be flippant to the outstanding comments that impacted politics and policy.
With the rest of us commenters? Where to start. There were two reactions when Karl found your comment; oh yeah… and oh no.
His recognition of your thoughts, he added weight he added facts too, at times. He made the comment section here a discussion, an argument in the best ways, a continuation of a discussion of thoughts, not a bunch of drive-bys. Then there was the oh no. While suffering no fools, you better have your facts, and what was especially generous in both is how he’d defer and know, when it came to facts, and comments, he would be keeping all of us accountable to facts, to the history and institutional knowledge.
Wordslinger was the best commenter by making all who commented after, better. The funny, better. The facts, sharper. The thoughts and analysis crisper. You read Karl here, like state leaders did, like agency heads did, like we all did, because he was genuine.
I regret never meeting him. Even by chance.
My sincere condolences to his family, his wife, children, his friends. My condolences to Rich as well.
I hope his family and friends who did not know or realize all he did here on this blog read the post and the comments today. Karl has had a large impact on this state. He can’t be replaced here.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:46 pm
The proper words just don’t exist. It is very strange how people you have never met can have such a deep impact on your life. Sincerest condolences to his family.
Comment by Ducky LaMoore Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:47 pm
I’m so sorry about this.
Comment by Dan Johnson Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:48 pm
A devastating loss. Wordslinger, the word slinger whose words linger. He showed us true excellence and unimpeachable humanity. I hope we as the community of this blog are able to convey to his loved ones what a light he was for us all.
Comment by YSW Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:49 pm
So very tragic. I will miss his comments.
The driver was cited for failure to reduce speed. Illinois really needs to strengthen the penalties for vehicle / pedestrian accidents. Illinois has known too many people taken through the careless actions of drivers.
Comment by A Jack Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:49 pm
Very sorry to learn about this. Deepest condolences to his family and those who knew him.
Comment by RIJ Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:49 pm
R.I.P.
Comment by SpfdNewb Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:50 pm
Saw the report about his death and then read the obit a few days later. He seemed like a person I would have liked to have known, and it turns out he was someone we readers of Cap Fax did know and respect as Wordslinger. The loss felt by his family and friends obviously is greater than those of us who did not know him personally, but we have also lost a great human being and are, as John Donne wrote, diminished by his death.
Comment by West Side the Best Side Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:51 pm
How very sad; gone way too soon, as they say.
On major topics, sometimes I would skip down to his comment on the matter for his interesting take….and to read words of reason in this new age of political spin.
Comment by Stumpy's bunker Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:53 pm
This is a huge loss for this blog and for anyone concerned about Illinois politics. He will be sorely missed. May he RIP.
Comment by Pius Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:55 pm
What a shocking and sad loss. RIP Karl/Wordslinger, and condolences to his family and friends.
Comment by Lunchbox Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:56 pm
Shocked, stunned, and saddened to hear this news. What a giant he was on this blog. I will miss his biting wit and wisdom. RIP, Karl.
Comment by ??? Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:57 pm
Definitely a big loss. One of the best commenters on here who definitely knew how to drive the conversation. Condolences to all on Slingers loss.
Comment by Glengarry Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:57 pm
I am very sorry. He set the bar among us for clear thought and ethical action. Some people make the world better just by being in it.
Comment by Morningstar Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:57 pm
Aside from the actual news the best part of this site is the level of discussion, argument, discourse and shared knowledge in the comments. He will be missed. More than that, I fear Illinois will be worse for his loss.
Deepest condolences to his wife, family and friends.
Comment by What's in a name? Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:58 pm
A real light that helped shine some needed illumination on Illinois politics has been extinguished, far too soon. RIP, Word.
Comment by Team America Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 2:59 pm
How can a “regular” person you’ve never met have such an impact? That is a singular testament to his abilities with ‘the word”. There’s not a commenter here who hasn’t secretly wondered what Wordslinger might think of your contribution. He wasnt one to heap praise or eviserate. He was the one who, after reading his, wish you’d have said it. But, no, no one could come close to his style/insight.
Comment by Sayitaintso Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:01 pm
So nice to finally know your name, Karl. Your family should know how much your wordslings of wisdom meant to us. Some of the soundest points ever made about Illinois state government. I treasure the highest compliment ever paid to me on CapFax, when he approved one of my posts: “I nominate that for comment of the year. Wish I had said it.” RIP Karl/Wordslinger
Comment by Strategy Geek Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:01 pm
What a huge loss. My condolences to his family.
Never met Karl, or had any idea of what he looked like or did in his life. Yet I would have loved to share a cold beverage and hang out with the guy. I am struggling to put into words what I am feeling right now. (Something Karl never suffered from).
Thank you Karl and Godspeed.
Comment by Henry Francis Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:02 pm
Very sorry to hear this!
Comment by Fisher Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:05 pm
My sincerest condolences to his family, I can’t even imagine how they feel. Like everyone else here I always considered him one of the best commenters on this site and always valued what he said.
Comment by ItsMillerTime Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:06 pm
I had great respect for Wordslinger. He is one the world is better for because he lived among us. My most sincere condolences for his family, friends and those who were privileged to know him.
Comment by FormerParatrooper Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:06 pm
It’s truly amazing how much someone you’ve never met and wouldn’t realize who he was ( to you) if you did…can mean to you. As many people have already commented, he added a great deal to our daily conversations here. Probably even more do to the subscribed threads. I’ m going to miss his contributions.
Rich, thank you for letting us know not only that we’ve lost an important friend, but also telling us who he was in the real world.
Comment by thoughts matter Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:06 pm
This is a real tragedy . He will be missed. Whenever I don’t see him posting here , I wonder what’s going on . WORDSLINGER RIP.
Comment by Steve Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:07 pm
RIP Wordslinger. Big loss for the cap fax community. The Wordslinger award seems even more fitting now.
Comment by Boone's is Back Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:09 pm
Tragic, his insight will be missed greatly. Thank you Rich for introducing Karl.
Comment by Aldemuvs Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:10 pm
Oh my God.
What a heavy loss. Best commentator at Capfax. I loved his acerbic wit and his unparalleled knowledge of Illinois politics, culture, and sports.
My deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Comment by Nick Name Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:10 pm
Thanks OW, you made me realize something. How much I appreciate all of you here on this blog. Calling it a blog feels “lesser” somehow. This is a community of folks passionate and involved in our state. You know, that’s rare. And Wordslinger was a HUGE huge part of this community. Like Amalia, it was a BIG day when Word commented on one of my comments. I often commented on his. I almost always took his side. He was a knight and I so looked up to him.
This horrible event reminds me that so many many of you are important to me too. I am thankful
Ever so thankful
That people who care
who care about Illinois
can dialogue and debate
for the better of Illinois
I have to believe
that Wordslingers words
Changed Illinois for the better
many times.
Thank you Rich and all the commenters here.
Comment by Honeybear Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:12 pm
The best memorial to Wordslinger would be that the Cap Fax blog community continue to engage in robust civil discourse to further our common goal to make Illinois a great place to live and work.
Comment by phocion Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:13 pm
Wordslinger did not always embrace the words “thoughts and prayers” after a tragedy. But I for one am offering both to his family and friends.
Comment by don the legend Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:14 pm
Rich may have a more sophisticated way of doing this. But the last post of the day on Thursday, June 6th was “Willie Wilson to blast Pritzker spending plan.” Here are Wordslinger’s comments:
–Unfortunately I will miss this because I am taking tomorrow off…– (part of Rich’s post)
I might go to see if he’s passing out hondos. If I make that train, it will make for a leisurely Friday liquid lunch at the Goat for Cubs/Cards.
Comment by Smalls Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:14 pm
Feeling a bit numb with the news at the moment. I feel OW’s well-worded comment deeply. Sincerest condolences to Karl’s loved ones. Rich, please let us know what we can do for them, when you get a chance.
Comment by OutOfState Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:14 pm
My God, I’ll miss him.
– MrJM
Comment by @misterjayem Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:14 pm
What terrible news. I always enjoyed his take on whatever was being discussed. Even when his pointed wit was aimed At something I said. He will be missed.
Comment by Former Hillrod Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:15 pm
Wow…I am mostly a lurker here but I always admired his take on ALL issues. So sorry to Rich and Word’s family.
Comment by Diverdown Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:15 pm
I look forward to reading this blog daily, as I learn a lot from what Rich reports as well as the commenters here. @Wordslinger was undeniably one of those voices.
RIP to Wordslinger. Do not go gentle into that good night, brother. Many prayers and condolences for his loved ones.
Hey Rich, I’m not sure if it’s been proposed, but certainly your “Commenter of the Year” award should be named after Word in his honor. Just a humble suggestion.
Comment by Springfield Westsider Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:16 pm
== This blog will never be the same. ==
== Heart sank when I saw his name up top. ==
== Never met the guy and I’m choking back tears right now. ==
Same, to all of these and more.
Karl/Wordslinger made me want to understand every issue better. I did not know him beyond his words here, and I will miss him tremendously. The hole he leaves in the lives of those who knew him apart from here must be incalculable.
Peace to his friends and family. And tell your loved ones you love them today.
Comment by thunderspirit Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:17 pm
Capitol Fax isn’t just Rich posting links with some analysis and commentary, it’s a community. You look forward to posts and the comments. Few sites on web are worthy of reading the comments, but this is one of them and Wordslinger was a major reason why. Insightful, witty, and pithy without being hateful or ad hominem.
Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:18 pm
Sharp Dude. Great Communicator. Sometimes funny, sometimes harsh, but almost always “right”. I took pride in thinking I knew his Secret Identity; and come to find out now that he proved me wrong once more. A terrible shame and loss for anyone who enjoyed even being pummeled by him.
Comment by Stuntman Bob's Brother Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:21 pm
As so many others have said, I’m stunned. We shared a heritage, a school and a philosophy about government. What I could not share with him was the reasoned and eloquent writing that aptly addressed the issues discussed here. While his comments will be missing, he’ll be forever remembered in this blog. For us commenters, we have an impossibly high standard to reach to achieve Word’s level.
Godspeed Karl Wordslinger. Say hello to AA for me.
Comment by Norseman Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:24 pm
One of many reasons I visit this site on a routine basis is no longer. I can only imagine the pain his family and friends are experiencing.
RIP Word.
Comment by The Doc Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:25 pm
A loss that can never be made better.
Comment by Nieva Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:25 pm
“Yet I would have loved to share a cold beverage and hang out with the guy.”
I would have loved to share some jazz cabbage with him. From what I gathered in his writings, he liked it and would have loved marijuana legalization and the social and economic equity of ending marijuana prohibition and its disproportionate harm to communities of color.
Time to have a drink and/or spark one up in his honor. He would have probably loved both.
Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:26 pm
Rest in peace, a brilliant mind gone far too soon.
Comment by Stark Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:26 pm
Wow. Sending warmth to all of his friends & family in hopes they find peace after all of this. Very sad news.
Comment by Rockford's Finest Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:27 pm
What a loss.
A great commentator and an even better family man.
Wordslinger elevated the discourse. Every. Single. Time.
There is tremendous intellect here and a lot of well conceived opinions; including a lot of thoughtful opinions I totally disagree with. Illinois is a better state because of this blog.
Good discussion, just like good governance, is hard work.
Comment by State of DenIL Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:27 pm
Dear Rich, May peace be with you. I always enjoyed reading Wordslinger’s insights. May Wordslinger rest in peace.
Comment by Mama Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:28 pm
Karl had legions of admirers. I was one of them. That’s in part because I nearly always agreed with him but also because he made good use of facts and humor to deliver his point of view. Five years ago, I figured out he was the man behind the moniker and that we first met when he was a PAR intern. We reconnected by email, exchanged more emails over the years and, like Soccermom, said we would get together for coffee but never did. Rest In Peace, Karl.
Comment by Jim Bray Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:31 pm
My condolences to his family and this community. You’ll be missed greatly by many Wordslinger.
Comment by Fixer Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:33 pm
…someone who had a huge impact on this state without hardly anyone knowing who he really was. - Rich Miller
According to Buddhism… the most skillful advocate remains anonymous to those he has helped…Wordslinger was a Master of Skillful Means…indeed.
Comment by Dotnonymous Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:34 pm
This is, indeed, a tough thing to go through. We similarly lost a close relative a few months ago - he and his dog were both hit by a driver not paying close enough attention. A loss like this is beyond measure.
Comment by Hieronymus Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:35 pm
no . . . No . . . NO This cannot have happened. What a loss. Peace to Word and his family, and his friends here.
Comment by Flapdoodle Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:35 pm
May he rest in peace….
Comment by Unle Ernie Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:36 pm
Wow. How sad.
Comment by Power House Prowler Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:36 pm
Rest In Peace, Karl. Your posts and wit always brightened my day. I looked forward to your comments, especially on issues that are “uniquely Illinois”.
My condolences to your loved ones. We’ll miss you.
Comment by Bourbon Street Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:36 pm
Sad to hear. My condolences.
Comment by ChicagoVinny Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:42 pm
I saw this over my lunch and have been in tears since. When I started coming to this blog, knowing nothing about politics, I relied on a few specific posters to learn. Word was one of those. Never met him but it feels like I lost a mentor. May peace be with his loved ones in this time of sorrow. I truly feel we were all better for knowing him here, even those who disagreed with him.
Comment by HangingOn Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:44 pm
Terrible loss, he was hilarious
Comment by Rutro Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:44 pm
Thanks OW for the tribute for Karl / Wordslinger.
Well said.
Rich, thank you for your website and comment section.
You cover Illinois better than anyone else.
It just seemed like an appropriate time to say that.
Comment by Jake From Elwood Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:45 pm
My first thought after seeing this was, Oh goodness, another subject for those poignant “It’s a matter of Life and death” PSAs that are on all the stations this summer about responsible driving.” Surely there is someone on this site who knows how they get chosen/made who could help get one produced in honor of Karl.
Comment by Responsa Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:47 pm
Wow. Only knew Karl Oxnevad as Wordslinger and he was my favorite commenter by a long way. Terribly sad to hear this.
Comment by SAP Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:52 pm
I am so sad about this, Word was one of the very best. I just can’t believe it. Prayers to his family.
Comment by JS Mill Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:53 pm
Nothing good today. There’s just nothing good today.
Comment by Southern_Dawg Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:53 pm
Oh I’m so sorry to hear this. My sympathies to his family.
Comment by Patty Schuh Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:54 pm
Having so clearly (to me) run in the same circles at different points in time, I was forever trying to figure his identity thinking I’d know him, at least tangentially. It turns out I didn’t, but that doesn’t lessen the impact of losing a great mind with a great wit at a way too young age.
Karl chose his moniker well, which is unsurprising given the hindsight of his output. He slung words with aplomb and efficiency. He’ll be missed here, and I have no doubt he’ll be missed more by those that loved him.
Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:55 pm
Oh I am so sad. Wordslinger’s thoughtful commentary and incisive questions advanced the dialogue and made us all better. His heart was clear to all. He is an example for us all to strive toward. RIP Karl.
Comment by pawn Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:56 pm
God, that is so sad, for his family and everyone else. He was definitely one of my read first commenters, and you could tell he was even influencing people in power with his words here. It’s a huge loss.
Comment by Three Dimensional Checkers Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:56 pm
I’m devastated. I never had to comment here because Word had me covered. My husband was hit by a car last month with catastrophic injuries. I’m sitting in the ER now, counting my blessings. Godspeed my friend.
Comment by HearMeRoar Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:56 pm
My goodness. How terrible. A bright mind gone.
Comment by Unpopular Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:57 pm
This is really sad to hear. I don’t post much, and I always felt smarter after reading Wordslinger’s comments, which were insightful, intelligent, and illuminating. CapFaxers, like myself, will really miss him.
Comment by Steve Rogers Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:58 pm
Didn’t always agree with his takes, or his commenting style, but he was smart as a whip. I hope for peace for his family during this difficult time.
Comment by A State Employee Guy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:59 pm
Posting again, this time without the swears.
As all have said, it’s stunning to lose a voice and intellect so full of humanity and wisdom. A fellow soul and traveler who will be missed by all.
RIP
Comment by Blue Bayou Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 3:59 pm
Rest In Peace Word.
I always enjoyed your wit and sarcasm.
Comment by Lucky Pierre Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:00 pm
One of the very special features of this blog is the fact that many of us become, or feel as though we have become, “friends” with others who are as anonymous as we all are. And when we find that we can no longer talk and learn from that “friend” it hits hard.
Over the years I have been a regular here I have come to know a lot of my fellow commenters and respect their insights, comments and observations. Some became quite predictable, but others were always able to take the discussion to a higher level. Wordslinger was one of those rare individuals.
He did not suffer fools lightly, but was never impolite. His ability to be succinct yet able to frame the discussion are to be admired. He set the bar extremely high and many of us will likely never even come close to being able to demonstrate the understanding and insights that he possessed. We all need to raise the quality of our comments to even come close to the standard he set and the accountability, and facts, he expected of all of us.
I often found myself attempting, and failing, to expand a comment he made so well. But it did make some of us feel special when he would follow up on one of our posts.
I wish I could have known Karl personally, but I did know him through his comments and learned much from him. He helped me focus on what the real issues were and helped me put issues in perspective. And that made be a better person.
My deepest condolences to the family and to this special community.
Comment by illini Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:00 pm
Thoughts and love to his family. A profound loss, and I hope they’re finding some solace in the warm and true words found here today. There’s folks from across the state mourning him today. RIP
Comment by lakeside Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:04 pm
About the best thing I can think to say right now is he inspired me to try to be a better writer / commentator.
Comment by RNUG Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:05 pm
I’m just devastated. So sorry for his family.
Comment by ArchPundit Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:05 pm
So sad to hear this. I truly enjoyed his wit on this site. May his memory be a blessing.
Comment by Rahm's Parking Meter Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:07 pm
I was a huge fan of this guy, and even more so now that you’ve shared his bio. Any time there was an issue or discussion that I wasn’t entirely sure about, I’d scroll to his comments for that trusted perspective and clarity. Such a loss for this community. My heart breaks for his family.
Comment by tmfbitu Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:08 pm
I cannot believe Wordslinger is no longer with us. This is going to take a while to digest. I am just so very sad.
Comment by Cheswick Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:09 pm
Like many others, reading Word’s words was something you just knew were there on almost any topic. And on point. How could he know so much and explain his point of view so well? Disagree with him all you want, he had a talent with words that at least showed you another explanation. Glad I got read/learn from him. Thank you Wordslinger.
Comment by zatoichi Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:11 pm
So sorry to hear this. I always made sure to look for his comments (on nearly every topic) on CapFax because they were so well-reasoned and witty.
Comment by Me Again Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:11 pm
He was a real life hero to me….
Comment by Mafcpa1 Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:13 pm
This is heart breaking. I can’t add much to OW’s comments. I’ve never before been moved to tears by someone I had never met. But such was his impact. I learned so much from reading his posts, and I am deeply thankful for the time and thought he put into them. My deepest condolences to his family, Rich, and everyone.
Comment by pto Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:14 pm
So sorry to hear this. Wordslinger was a Class Act, his voice will be missed.
Comment by LoyalVirus Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:15 pm
I was wondering where he went. This is really sad.
Comment by B-non Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:15 pm
Words cannot express my profound sorrow at this news. I learned so much from Karl in a few short years of following his comments, about honesty, integrity, and humor. We are all better for his life on and off this website.
Comment by Not a Superstar Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:19 pm
Very sad news. I truly appreciated his wit, knowledge and brevity to make his always interesting point.
Comment by Cirion Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:22 pm
I’m just stunned at the untimely passing of Word. He’ll be sorely missed by us all.
Just stunned…
Comment by Commonsense in Illinois Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:32 pm
Heartbreaking.
Comment by cc Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:34 pm
This is incredibly sad. Prayers and condolences to the family and every who knew him at all
Comment by RWP Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:34 pm
The most important commenter on the blog is how Rich described him and of course that is true. He was a laser, bringing any issue into instant focus. He was a gifted writer and I was constantly envious of his skill and perception.
What a loss, what a sad, horrible loss. I spent the past decade or so having out with him and never knew his name or his face. Yet I feel like I lost a good friend. I mourn for his actual friends and for his family. If I feel like this, their loss must be devastating. Rest In Peace brother, we’ll all catch up with you soon enough. Until then, this hurt is going to linger.
Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:34 pm
I’m so sorry to hear this. I read his words nearly every day and always wondered who the man behind them was.
Seeing him in a Bix shirt makes him feel even more like an old friend despite never meeting him.
Comment by Winderweezle Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:35 pm
I am having the most sad and devastated almost out of body reaction. I feel like someone just threw a brick at my head. I expected to be able to read his comments for a long long time, no shortages foreseen, and relish his wit and judgement. God I admired that guy, and I’m glad I told him so.
Comment by state worker Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:38 pm
Just saw this- this is so sad. His insight and wit on this website was one of the reasons why I was able to get through the malfeasance/mismanagement of the Rauner years. Stunned is the right word for this terrible news…
Comment by Roadiepig Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:40 pm
A tragedy and a real shame. Can tell of his impact on this site just by the number of inquires over last week about why no comments. May he rest in peace.
Comment by DuPage Saint Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:43 pm
I keep refreshing this and looking for his take on it. It’s going to be hard getting used to this.
Comment by Excitable Boy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:45 pm
:(
Comment by brickle Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:45 pm
I have no words to sling. Tragic. Carry around a rabbit’s foot, Willy.
Comment by Ray del Camino Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:45 pm
Even though I often disagreed with him, I respected his wit, intelligence, and passion. My prayers to his family.
Comment by Token Conservative Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:46 pm
I am in shock. I recognize him from the streets of Oak Park, but never knew who he was outside of Wordslinger. So very often I would see a post and immediately scroll through the comments to see what he wrote. When I found it, my typical response would be appreciation for his insight and wit laced with jealousy that I neither had that thought nor could I express it so well.
If I ever questioned whether you could feel a connection to some stranger writing words on a blog, I questioned it no more. All my thoughts and prayers to his family.
Comment by Montrose Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:47 pm
All I could think when I saw this was No (with an exclamation point, that would get this post blocked, I know).
No, no, no. Dammit.
Never met him. Always respected him. RIP.
Comment by Concerned Observer Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:50 pm
Such a loss. Sorry to hear
Comment by dr. reason a. goodwin Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 4:51 pm
Sling.
A void is left here.
My fervent hope is that he is now with Schnorf. In good ways and for the sake of justice, they deserve each other.
Sometimes a guy gets under your skin and then; just stays there. It is with Sling, just that way. Rest in Peace and deepest sympathy to his family. He didn’t live anything on the plate. Big bites and licked in clean. Peace Sling.
Comment by A guy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:01 pm
What a terrible loss. I’m relatively new to this blog but learned quickly to look for Wordslinger. I’ve been waiting to savor his sharp insights after what I assumed was a well deserved vacation. He leaves a giant hole in public discourse here and with the newspaper world. Deepest condolences to his family and those who knew him personally.
Comment by Froganon Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:01 pm
RIP
Comment by Ike Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:11 pm
Wordslinger’s comments on this blog will be truly missed. But he would want us to continue the conversation.
I am reminded of a favorite quote from Lord of the Rings: “…there’s some good in this world, … and it’s worth fighting for.” …
Comment by Enviro Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:16 pm
As a Capfax reader I respect the contributions from people like the Wordslinger and he will really be missed. I never found him to be a source of pompous or sloppy submissions. It is very easy for those of us who hold so many in Springfield in contempt because of their actions (or inactions) that we tend to paint them all with the same brush. Karl is gone when people like him are really needed.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:17 pm
It’s difficult to mourn someone you felt you knew and respected but didn’t know their name or face. Karl will be missed and I am especially sad for his family and friends. I hope they can take some solace in knowing how genuinely respected he was to so many “strangers.” He was taken too soon and will be missed.
Comment by Because I said so.... Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:20 pm
In the few years that I have been reading the blog, there have been a few commenters who slipped off the mortal coil and commemorated with a post. One of the first was named Bill. Now Wordslinger. Somehow the legion of commenters have attempted to pick up the slack left by the legendary wordsmiths.
Comment by Huh? Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:22 pm
I haven’t posted for awhile but I want to offer my sincere condolences to Word’s friends and family.
I disagreed with Word on a lot of topics but I always respected his opinion because he brought an informed opinion to the table. It’s not just that he brought facts and knowledge to the discussion but he would force you to take a different view of those facts through his presentation. Several times after reading his posts I found myself thinking “That’s a different way to look at this.” And that is probably the highest compliment that I can give him.
Rest in peace Word.
Comment by CrazyHorse Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:32 pm
Such a sad and senseless loss. He set a high bar here and his insight and wit will be sorely missed. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Comment by Leslie K Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:37 pm
So many have already written more eloquently than I, but, I am numb with shock, and heartbroken for Karl’s family. What a loss.
Comment by West Sider Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:40 pm
What terrible news! As someone who follows Capfax religiously, I depended on Word to put issues into clear focus, with insight and wit… he never failed me. I had no idea of his real-world identity, nor that I had known him for more than 30 years. We first met in spring, 1985, when Karl applied to the PAR program at then Sangamon State. I was on the admissions committee which accepted him, and then followed his internship and move into the professional reporting world. We’ve kept in touch over the years, mostly through his contributions to our annual PAR newsletter. My deepest condolences to his family, and to all of us who value the contributions he made to this site. Rest in peace, my friend.
Comment by Charlie Wheeler Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:40 pm
This hurts bad. Really bad. It seems odd to feel like I’ve lost a family member or friend. But it’s not really odd, is it?
This blog is a community of people who truly care about government and making it better, and Wordslinger was the best of us here.
He had such a meaningful impact on how our state works. And on all of us. I’m grateful for that and for him. As sad as this is, it’s nice to now know who Wordslinger was.
And to say: Thank you Karl…for everything. Godspeed.
Comment by Left Leaner Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:44 pm
I’m sorry for his loss. He brought a great deal of thoughtful commentary here. He will be missed.
Comment by Fairness Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:49 pm
So sorry to hear this. Condolences to his family … a profound loss for all of us.
Comment by olddog Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:51 pm
One wonders and laments what book will not be published 15 years from now due to this premature departure. Condolences to his wife and children.
Comment by Al Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:51 pm
So awful. I can only add sadness and prayers for his family.
Comment by Keyrock Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:55 pm
RIP Wordslinger. Sympathies to your friends & family. Going forward, may your legacy make us all better contributors.
Comment by Anyone Remember Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:55 pm
With deep sympathy for all who knew him, and knew of him. I too found his wit and wisdom a welcome change of pace, even when conflicting with my viewpoint.
Comment by revvedup Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 5:56 pm
I have very rarely commented here, and like many others only under this anon “handle” when doing so. But I often read the comments on posts of interest to me.
Wordslinger was a consistent favorite of mine - informed and courteous. He seemed to respect other points of view and others, while sharing his generally more informed opinions.
I didn’t know Word, but somehow I feel I did - and I feel a sadness over our loss here. To his family, thanks for sharing him with us. He was a good and appreciated person.
Comment by anon Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:02 pm
Wordslinger was a master at quickly getting to the heart of an issue with an economy of words, based on facts, that was remarkable. I was always in awe. I will never forget his Christmas posting of his family’s experience with Bob Dole. I greatly admired his view of Illinois and what we should strive for.
Comment by Res Melius Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:02 pm
you can tell what his impact was/is by the volume and depth of these comments, so many more than when I posted earlier. I have not encountered such an experience elsewhere, not knowing who someone is and yet knowing them, and then losing them. I’m hoping someone reading picks up on this and tells of his impact here to the wider world, say, in a newspaper. I told my husband about Word’s passing and he too was stunned even though he’s never looked at this blog. Word was a heavy hitter with a light heart. Peace everyone.
Comment by Amalia Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:07 pm
This is so shocking. So disturbing and so sad. The award for best commenter is named for him and it will be very hard to give the award this year to anyone but him. What a contribution he made around here. He will be missed.
Comment by Chicago Cynic Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:26 pm
Sorry to see Wordslinger gone too soon under tragie circumstances.
For all the benefits that we enjoy from using the Internet, the loss of an on line friend can create an unusual sense of emptiness and loss. Oftentimes, the emails and postings stop and we wrongly assume that our friends are temporarily absent. We imagine that they will return after a hiatus. Weeks, sometimes, months pass before we learn the truth.
A sad duty that I have performed in a few instances is notifying others and updating on line registries that a person is deceased. It is not out a sense of being morbid, but to spare family members from messages and spam generated from having active on line entries about the deceased persons.
Comment by Practical Politics Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:32 pm
Like so many other commenters, I am shocked and saddened by Word’s demise. He had a way of getting to the heart of the matter of whatever was being discussed. My condolences to his wife and children. Ma he rest in peace.
Comment by Old Dutch Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:33 pm
Avid reader of the blog and comments, infrequent commentator here. The majority of the people on this blog are far more insightful than I. Wordslinger was one of those people. I will miss his insightful comments. My sincerest condolences to his family, his friends, and to you Rich.
Comment by CardsFan Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:35 pm
He was a Mrs. Silence Dogood quality writer. I will miss him.
Sudden loss is particularly hard. Prayers for his family.
Comment by Last Bull Moose Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:44 pm
Stunned. Just. Stunned.
Best to his family.
It’s a warm day; we skate on thin ice.
Thanks OW and Honey Bear
Can’t say more.
Comment by Ill-Will Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:44 pm
Absolutely tragic. Such a loss to his family. He was one of the voices on this site that I had most respect for. Straight forward, always insightful and his remarks were always on the money. I will sorely miss him on the blog. RIP
Comment by Ginhouse Tommy Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:45 pm
I am so sad to hear this. He was literally my favorite voice in the comments section. He will be missed.
Comment by LakeCo Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:46 pm
Words cannot express what Wordslinger meant to this blog and to its family of commenters. It is just unbelievable that he is gone. We will miss him and the state will miss him. Condolences to his family, the commenters and to Rich.
Comment by Just a Citizen Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:47 pm
Oh man. No one will ever replace Wordslinger’s wit. He will be sorely missed. We’ve got others here that will need to up their game. I know I’m not in his league, but MrJM, Willy, soccermom, olddog, RNUG. Please step up, and be his voice. I’m devastated. He was an inspiration and a leading voice on this blog. And Walker, I’m not leaving you out here. Please step up as a voice of the compromise and democraic values you’ve demonstrated that you represent. THIS IS DEVASTATING.
Comment by PublicServant Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:48 pm
I can’t believe I’m still tearing up over this loss.
Comment by Ill-Willr Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:52 pm
He quickly made his points in a paucity of words yet with a rush of fact-based wisdom. I was always in awe. I will never forget his Christmas posting of his father’s experience and admiration for Bob Dole.
Comment by Res Melius Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 6:58 pm
Please Rich, let me know how I can help his family. And I forgot to include you in my previous plea to step up and try to fill Wordslinger’s shoes. You already do a good job, but, I don’t know, please be his avatar in remembrance of him. God bless him.
Comment by PublicServant Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:14 pm
Very, very, very sad.
Comment by Old Illini Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:30 pm
Always a tragic shame when people die so young. His insight’s always added something to just about any topic. He’ll be missed.
Comment by Perrid Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:36 pm
What a deep loss. He stood alone at the top, with insight,heart, and wit; and he was a friend to all here. My words couldn’t ever do him justice.
Comment by walker Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:43 pm
😢
Comment by ajjackssonp Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:50 pm
Very sad.
Comment by ajjacksson Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:51 pm
Eschew surplusage, Word.
Comment by My New Handle Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:51 pm
Had commented earlier, and thought I’d add on. Sayitisntso had come the closest to my thoughts. He could be biting, but never inaccurate. He will be missed. To those who can easily express thoughts with words, please do so. We will tell you when you you waver from Wordslinger, we will tell you.
Comment by bogey golfer Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 7:52 pm
So incredibly sad. I’m at a loss. He was a wizard with words and a great policy wonk.
Comment by Galactic cupcake Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 8:38 pm
RIP Word… a very sad day, my most heartfelt condolences to the Oxnevad family.
Comment by theCardinal Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 8:45 pm
Rest in Peace. Karl’s family are in my prayers. This blog will not be the same, but may his influence live on within us all.
Comment by Ed Equity Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 8:55 pm
“The hard necessity of bringing the judge on the bench down into the dock has been the peculiar responsibility of the writer in all ages of man.”
― Nelson Algren, Chicago: City on the Make
Words matter. Wordslinger showed us that, with wit and a clear eye.
Comment by Ridgelander Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 9:05 pm
Wow, no words at all. What a senseless loss. I’m sure you’re already on it Rich, but can you retire the name somehow (I always thought it was odd that people can just pick a name on here even if someone else has it, but I’d hate to see someone new accidentally post under the name or worse some idiot doing it intentionally).
Comment by Ferris Bueller Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 9:13 pm
There are no words. RIP to Karl who put together words so well.
Comment by 32nd Ward Roscoe Village Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 9:21 pm
Rich might own it, but Wordslinger was Da Mare of dis blog.
Comment by Too Soon Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 9:59 pm
Terrible terrible terrible news. He will be missed.
Comment by Fiercely Independent Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 10:04 pm
So so sad. I feel like I lost an old friend. Rest in peace.
Comment by Lefty Lefty Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 10:08 pm
RIP, Mr. Wordslinger.
Comment by DuPage Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 10:38 pm
A punch to the gut. I hope at some point there can be a post with some of Karl’s best work, challenging as it may be. RIP Wordslinger.
Comment by Marty Funkhouser Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 10:48 pm
Would always look for Wordslinger comments above all others. He will be truly missed.
Comment by Ihatepolitics Monday, Jul 1, 19 @ 11:03 pm
Been wrestling with this all day. Going to be stuck in the denial/disbelief stage of grief for some time. Ironically, the one person who had the insight, kindness, skill and grace to put this in perspective is no longer with us. I feel like we lost Clark Kent and his family and friends lost Superman.
Comment by 37B Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 12:00 am
Count me among the many who scrolled past many comments but always (repeat always) stopped to read what Wordslinger had to say, about any topic. I didn’t know Karl, but if this small segment of his life is any representation (and I’m confident it is) then I am devastated for his family and friends who knew him. He wished me well when I moved out of Illinois, and will miss his insight. RIP.
Comment by Vote Quimby Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 12:27 am
Rest in peace.
“someone who had a huge impact on this state without hardly anyone knowing who he really was”
Indeed.
Comment by Anono Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 1:00 am
Bill, Steve Schnorf, Arthur Anderson, and now Wordslinger…I saw this when it just posted, and it’s taken me three tries to read through it, weeping as I do so.
I’ve been reading this blog since the Blagojevich years. Always enjoy Rich’s wit and the contributions of so many of the commenters.
I only knew Wordslinger through his contributions here, but he did great work. He will most definitely be missed.
Thanks to his family for sharing him with us. I can only imagine how they must be reeling right now. May the good Lord bless them, keep them, and let them know the comfort of His presence.
(To the rest of us: let’s spend some time this summer with those we love, and make sure they know how we feel.
And step up our work here, in honor of Word’s memory.)
Comment by Lynn S. Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 1:08 am
Long time lurker here. What a shock to read. Word’s comments were always among the ones I looked for first. He will be very much missed. RIP
Comment by Jaguar Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 6:07 am
Woke up this morning and came right back here to review and read new comments. We are all on the same page, for once. Then you Rich, for providing Karl with a big platform where his prodigious talent could have a big impact.
Comment by Rachel Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 6:08 am
Wordslinger was my favorite commenter on this site, bar none. Always insightful, never unnecessarily belligerent or belittling. I would always look for his comments. I never knew who he was, but I and this blog will surely miss him. Clearly not as much as his family and those who did know him. My condolences.
Comment by Blitz Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 6:35 am
My condolences to his family and to the CapFax family. Karl was a thinker, very knowledgeable, extremely sharp. He took me to the woodshed more than a few times.
I could hold my own with him on a topic or two but usually it was an average high school baseball team(me) versus a major league team(Karl.)
Rest in Peace Word.
Comment by Pick a Name Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 7:21 am
Wordslinger to me was not just the best commenter on the blog because of his piercing insight, BS detection, deep knowledge, fairness (willing to slam his own side) and sharp attacks (this is politics, folks).
He was the best commenter on the blog because in combination with his mad skills and talent, he had deep concern for the little gal and guy, for the most vulnerable, for those who government should help the most. It outraged him what happened here recently. For me without this beautiful heart, something tremendous is missing.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 7:23 am
I’m shocked and immensely saddened. We disagreed a lot even though we probably voted the same way 99% of the time. When he took issue with something I wrote he was usually right. I hope his family sees this post and gets a sense how even in this tangential part of his life what an impact he made on people and indeed the state.
Comment by lake county democrat Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:26 am
CapitolFax will never be the same…
My sincerest condolences to everyone.
Comment by Angel's Sword Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:31 am
This looks to be comment No. 240. What a testament to Karl’s impact on this community. It may also be interesting to note that, this far down in the comments section, the ad banner to the right is just black. RIP Karl, a.k.a. Wordslinger.
Comment by Proud Sucker Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:43 am
I got into a few arguments with him here, but never felt any ill will on his part; and agreed with him more often than not. Wordslinger’s kind was the person you could have a good debate with, and go have a drink and a friendly conversation afterward…a quality the world could use more of. Wish I’d had the chance outside the blogosphere.
Comment by Six Degrees of Separation Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:49 am
How very sad. My condolences to his family and all who knew Karl.
Comment by The Bashful Raconteur Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:50 am
R.I.P - I didn’t know you personally, but loved your presence and contributions!
Comment by Ash Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:52 am
Perhaps, knowing and trusting he is in a far better place may offer some consolation to all.Peace
Comment by flea Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 8:58 am
I’m stunned and saddened. The world has lost a great intellect. OswegoWilly has it much better than I.
My brother-in-law was struck by a Lyft driver on March 13. He is still struggling to survive. The authorities have got to get serious about driving while staring at a smart phone display.
Comment by Streamwood Retiree Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 9:01 am
I forgot to add one thing, great writer. He was the best writer in comments. He was the one so many of us looked for on the blog. He could really turn a phrase, and he seemed very humble about his skills and talent. He found his calling in the written word.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 9:06 am
I’m closing this post because I’ve created a fresh thread: https://capitolfax.com/2019/07/02/one-of-wordslingers-best-stories/
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Jul 2, 19 @ 9:22 am