Judy Groothuis

Judy Groothuis (née Greenebaum), 72, died on December 22, 2024, surrounded by family. Judy was known for making friends with everyone – from the pharmacists at Walgreens to the owners of her favorite stores along Central Street, she was on a first-name basis with everyone. Although she hadn’t been able to get out of the house much since COVID, she relished keeping in touch with friends and family via text and email. For someone who wasn’t very socially active, her inbox was always very full. She adored frequent visits from her grandchildren, and was the very best Nana to all of them. Judy loved watching reality TV shows, rom-coms, and Dateline, and never failed to make sure her kids knew when new seasons of their favorite shows were starting. She was a real-life TV Guide. She was a compassionate nurse for many years. She worked her entire career, from nursing school through retirement, at Evanston Hospital. Judy was the beloved wife for 41 years to Dennis; devoted mother of Derek (Becca) Groothuis, Elizabeth Groothuis (Jeff Gardner), and Katie (Sam) Garfinkel; proud Nana of David, Zoe, Ben, Alice, and Nate; adored daughter of Nancy and the late Robert Greenebaum; treasured sister of Cathy Block and Bob (Amy) Greenebaum and sister-in-law of Barbara (Frank) Kurzdorfer and Jacque Flyr; dear aunt of Jamie and Luke Greenebaum, Dylan Block, Travis Hart, Tracy Stacy, and Brandon (Michele) Flyr; fond niece of John (Audrey) Rosenheim; will be incredibly missed by numerous cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Connections for the Homeless, https://www.connect2home.org/. Judy felt passionately about supporting local causes, and often contributed to this organization. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 27, 11 AM at Beth Hillel B’nai Emunah, 3220 Big Tree Lane, Wilmette. Park in the East parking lot off of Temple Lane. A condolence luncheon will follow. For a link to view the service and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org, 847-255-3520.

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Service Information

Service : Friday, December 27th at 11:00 am
Service Location: Memorial Service -Beth Hillel B’nai Emunah