Helen Hackman

Helen Hackman, nee Schwartz, 97, beloved wife of the late Gilbert; loving mother of Neil (Ana) Hackman and David (Dawna) Hackman; cherished Bubbe of Justin Hackman and Drew Hackman; adored Great Bubbe of Rayne and Vallyn; devoted daughter of the late Ella and Alex Schwartz; dear sister of the late Max (Lucy and Peggy) Schwartz, Henry (Sylvia) Schwartz and Morris (Ann) Schwartz; treasured aunt, cousin and friend of many.

Helen lived a beautiful, loving, and full life. Born, raised, and married in Chicago, she moved to Skokie in 1955 and lived there for 25 years. Her beloved husband Gil died suddenly in 1979, and she later moved to Arlington Heights to be closer to her grandchildren. But she was most at home on Mt. Pleasant Subdivision in South Haven, Michigan, where she was a life-long summer resident. She embraced every day on Mt. Pleasant because of family members, lifelong friends and neighbors, and a strong generational community feel. And there she never tired of watching the sunsets over Lake Michigan.

The loves of Helen’s life were chocolate and pasta, reading historical fiction, winters in Florida, flowers, traveling, and the color blue. She was an artist, a seamstress, a baker, a gardener, a jam-maker, a calligrapher, a veteran of WWII serving in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), and a dance partner to Gil. She was a devoted fan at all sporting events that her sons or grandsons participated in. She was curious and embraced learning new things, warmly welcomed everyone she met, and enjoyed lively conversation. She dearly cherished her extended family; they were an integral part of who she was. Above all, she loved being a mother, a grandmother, and a great-grandmother. Being called “Bubbe” brought her unparalleled joy.

Helen was immensely blessed to be loved by so many people who treasured her and will miss her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Pleasant Subdivision (Floral and Fauna Fund), c/o Danielle Kallison 26702 N. Trail Court, Mettawa, IL 60045.

A private graveside service will be held. For Shiva information and to leave condolences, please contact Shalom Memorial Funeral Home at (847) 255-3520 or www.shalommemorial.org.