Conrad Alan Gutraj - Ret. Sgt. GLPD, age 74, of Grayslake, Illinois, was peacefully received into God’s arms on January 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife of more than 51 years,Vivian, and his children, Bryan, Tiffany, and John.

Conrad was born on March 3, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, to Stanley and Dolores Gutraj. He attended St. Bonaventure High School and later earned his Associates Degree in Law Enforcement at the College of Lake County.

A decorated US Army veteran, Conrad proudly served in two campaigns during the VietnamWar. Following his military service, he dedicated over 25 years to the Grayslake Police Department, where he built an exemplary record of service. A respected leader within the Department, he served as Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Deputy Chief of Police.Throughout his career, he received numerous commendations and awards, including the National Credentialed Law Enforcement Officers award for police service presented to him in Washington, D.C. He also served on the Police Pension Board and established the foundation for the local Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) for the Grayslake Police Department.

Outside of his professional service, Conrad was an accomplished nature photographer. His work earned many awards and was seen in multiple publications. He was a member of the Riverwoods Nature Photography Club, the Shutter Bugs of Volo Bog, and past member of the Grayslake Lions Club. He especially loved fishing and taking car trips to new places, always with his camera ready to capture the beauty of the scenery.

Above all else, Conrad cherished being a grandfather. He traveled countless miles to be present for his grandchildren—attending their events, supporting their interests, and sharing in their lives with pride and joy. 

Conrad is survived by his beloved wife, Vivian; his children, Bryan Gutraj, Tiffany Rosik (Ray),and John Gutraj (Valerie), and his four grandchildren, Nolan, Alex, Bryce, and Mary. He is also survived by his siblings, Barbara, Deborah, and Tim. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Dolores Gutraj, and his brother, Wallace Gutraj.

A memorial service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, Illinois, 60030 on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. to 1:00pm with services commencing at 1:00 p.m., followed by a luncheon.  Inurnment will be held privately at Ft. Sheridan National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:K-9s for Veterans - https://www.k9sforveteransnfp.org  American Heart Association - https://www.heart.org  Conrad will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.