Calvin Glen Cox Ii

Calvin Glen Cox II, age 19, of Wadsworth, went home to Jesus December 9th, 2014, at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, surrounded by family. He bravely battled NUT Midline Carcinoma, an extremely rare and fatal, adolescent lung cancer in non-smokers. Calvin was born March 19th, 1995 in Lake Forest, the third child of Calvin and Susan Cox. He attended College of Lake County pursuing a double major in Chemical Engineering and Music. He received "Semester Honors for Academic Excellence" for each semester at CLC and was in his fourth semester. Calvin had a beautiful voice and sang many genres. He was a member of the College of Lake County Choir, the Music Source Professional Rock and Roll Band and in a metal band with friends. He was an accomplished musician, accompanying his self with guitar and keyboard. He enjoyed classical, rock, and his favorite band "Iron Maiden" concerts. Calvin received "Renaissance Man Award" from teachers for his versatility. He wrote poetry, stories, music and acted in plays. His works were published in a school magazine. He was a lifelong tinkerer, delighting us with his contraptions and alternative ways of doing things. Cal had a keen sense of duty and carried his weight in every organization he joined. He was the secretary of the Psychology Club at CLC and received the Silver Circle of Achievement Award for his contributions to the club. A gentle soul, Cal conducted his life in a caring manner. He completed the American Red Cross program to help if needed in CPR and First Aid. He received a "Recognition Award" for his service to The N.E. Farmsteads growing vegetables for the food pantry. An animal lover, he received a "Recognition Award" from the Humane Society for caring for cats at the shelter. He lifted weights daily and was extremely strong. His other activities include Yoga, running 5 K races for charity, and snowboarding in the Green Mountains of New Hampshire. He was a member of the Warren High School Wrestling Team and also enjoyed archery, target shooting, fishing and Tai Kwon Do. Ralph Waldo Emerson said "It is not the length of life that counts but the depth." In his short time Cal fathomed the depths of a life well lived. Calvin is sadly missed by his parents, Calvin and Susan; sisters, Kjersten, Susanne and Alyssa; grandmother, Vivian Gwaltney; a host of aunts and uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Russell Gwaltney; grandparents, Darius and Evelyn Cox; and cousin, Keith Cox. Please join the family for a visitation and memorial service Saturday, December 20 at Bethel Lutheran Church, 5110 Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL. 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Pastor Ben Squires will officiate a celebration of Calvin's life. Donations can be made to Bethel Lutheran Church. Arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium(www.strangfuneral.org) (847)223-8122.