Mnetoqua
Mnetoqua, who is also known as Marguerite or Margaret was a Potawatomi woman who married French-Indian fur trapper Leon Bourassa. When her tribe was forced off their land in 1832 she stayed behind to tend to her ancestral graves that are now Forest Home Cemetery.
Mnetoqua, who is also known as Marguerite or Margaret was a Potawatomi woman who married French-Indian fur trapper Leon Bourassa. When her tribe was forced off their land in 1832 she stayed behind to tend to her ancestral graves that are now Forest Home Cemetery.
Elizabeth Hillmer
Unknown-1886
Elizabeth Hillmer, a midwife hailed as "the only doctor for a long time in Harlem," dedicated her life to the well-being of her community. Arriving in Harlem in 1855 from Germany, she brought with her a background in medicine from her native country. Filling a crucial void in healthcare, she tirelessly tended to the sick, offering round-the-clock care with compassion and generosity. Known for her kindness and charitable spirit, she often served the impoverished without seeking compensation.
Unknown-1886
Elizabeth Hillmer, a midwife hailed as "the only doctor for a long time in Harlem," dedicated her life to the well-being of her community. Arriving in Harlem in 1855 from Germany, she brought with her a background in medicine from her native country. Filling a crucial void in healthcare, she tirelessly tended to the sick, offering round-the-clock care with compassion and generosity. Known for her kindness and charitable spirit, she often served the impoverished without seeking compensation.
Hannah Zimmerman
1849-1907
Hannah Martha Zimmerman was the dynamic force behind the bakery and general store her husband, Ludwig Zimmerman, opened on Franklin Street in 1888. Known for its eclectic offerings, the store’s motto was “Everything under the sun, if you can find it.” Hannah’s energy and dedication were essential to the business's success, making it a beloved fixture in the community. She and Ludwig had one daughter, Minnie, who became an exceptional salesperson in her own right. Hannah’s legacy endures as a model of resilience and dedication in Forest Park.
1849-1907
Hannah Martha Zimmerman was the dynamic force behind the bakery and general store her husband, Ludwig Zimmerman, opened on Franklin Street in 1888. Known for its eclectic offerings, the store’s motto was “Everything under the sun, if you can find it.” Hannah’s energy and dedication were essential to the business's success, making it a beloved fixture in the community. She and Ludwig had one daughter, Minnie, who became an exceptional salesperson in her own right. Hannah’s legacy endures as a model of resilience and dedication in Forest Park.
Dorothy Metzger
1849 -1916
Dorothy Lindermann Lange Metzger, a pioneer of Forest Park, arrived with her father Henry Lindermann in 1859. She married Henry Lange, and together they opened the first saloon on Madison Street, later selling it to Henry Licht in 1889. They then established another saloon at Des Plaines Avenue and Harrison Street, catering to those visiting local cemeteries. After Henry’s passing, Dorothy married Mr. Metzger and continued the business, even serving as a ticket agent for the Northern Pacific Railroad. She was known for her entrepreneurial spirit and warmth.
1849 -1916
Dorothy Lindermann Lange Metzger, a pioneer of Forest Park, arrived with her father Henry Lindermann in 1859. She married Henry Lange, and together they opened the first saloon on Madison Street, later selling it to Henry Licht in 1889. They then established another saloon at Des Plaines Avenue and Harrison Street, catering to those visiting local cemeteries. After Henry’s passing, Dorothy married Mr. Metzger and continued the business, even serving as a ticket agent for the Northern Pacific Railroad. She was known for her entrepreneurial spirit and warmth.
Elizabeth White
1866-1956
Elizabeth P. White, born in 1866 in Cazenovia, NY, dedicated 45 years of her life to teaching at Grant School, starting in 1895. Renowned for her personal involvement, she attended students’ birthday parties and maintained connections with students even after they graduated. In recognition of her impact, a school addition was named in her honor in 1928. After retiring in 1935, she returned to New York but remained fondly remembered in Forest Park, where the school was later renamed Grant-White. Elizabeth passed away in 1956 at 90, leaving a lasting legacy in the community and the field of education.
1866-1956
Elizabeth P. White, born in 1866 in Cazenovia, NY, dedicated 45 years of her life to teaching at Grant School, starting in 1895. Renowned for her personal involvement, she attended students’ birthday parties and maintained connections with students even after they graduated. In recognition of her impact, a school addition was named in her honor in 1928. After retiring in 1935, she returned to New York but remained fondly remembered in Forest Park, where the school was later renamed Grant-White. Elizabeth passed away in 1956 at 90, leaving a lasting legacy in the community and the field of education.
Elizabeth Pistor
1868-1924
Elizabeth Pistor was a founding member and the first president of the Forest Park Women's Club, established in 1914. Under her leadership, the club became a vital community organization. With a focus on philanthropy, the club joined the Illinois State Federation in 1916 and the National Federation in 1923. Elizabeth’s dedication to the club and its mission laid the groundwork for future initiatives, fostering a spirit of service and camaraderie among women in Forest Park.
1868-1924
Elizabeth Pistor was a founding member and the first president of the Forest Park Women's Club, established in 1914. Under her leadership, the club became a vital community organization. With a focus on philanthropy, the club joined the Illinois State Federation in 1916 and the National Federation in 1923. Elizabeth’s dedication to the club and its mission laid the groundwork for future initiatives, fostering a spirit of service and camaraderie among women in Forest Park.
Bess Roos
1884-1977
Bess Roos was a pillar of her community. As a Forest Park Public Library Board member, she promoted literacy and access to knowledge. Following an enlightening trip to Russia, her 1937 speech at the West Suburban American League advocated for peace. As an active member of the Women's Club she led the 1928 Red Cross Christmas Seal sale. She facilitated a school nurse program in 1925, thanks to the Kiwanis Club, and hosted the Oak Park Day Nursery at the Kiwanis Club in 1938 while promoting child care and hygiene education.
1884-1977
Bess Roos was a pillar of her community. As a Forest Park Public Library Board member, she promoted literacy and access to knowledge. Following an enlightening trip to Russia, her 1937 speech at the West Suburban American League advocated for peace. As an active member of the Women's Club she led the 1928 Red Cross Christmas Seal sale. She facilitated a school nurse program in 1925, thanks to the Kiwanis Club, and hosted the Oak Park Day Nursery at the Kiwanis Club in 1938 while promoting child care and hygiene education.
Edith Heilemann
1887-1917
Edith Heilemann was the first associate editor and reporter of the Forest Park Review, where she worked from 1917- 1941. She is credited with the famous 1926 “History of Forest Park” edition. She authored a weekly section titled “Chirpings of the Canary,” which featured odds and ends about Forest Park during that period.
1887-1917
Edith Heilemann was the first associate editor and reporter of the Forest Park Review, where she worked from 1917- 1941. She is credited with the famous 1926 “History of Forest Park” edition. She authored a weekly section titled “Chirpings of the Canary,” which featured odds and ends about Forest Park during that period.
Bertha Hitchcock Koeppel
1897-1983
Bertha Koeppel taught in Forest Park Public Schools for 43 years and was also a dance teacher. She organized many talent shows benefitting the Infant Welfare Society, Friends of the Library, the American Legion, and Forest Park Public Schools.
1897-1983
Bertha Koeppel taught in Forest Park Public Schools for 43 years and was also a dance teacher. She organized many talent shows benefitting the Infant Welfare Society, Friends of the Library, the American Legion, and Forest Park Public Schools.
Helen Imber
1898-1983
Helen Imber dedicated her life to Forest Park, teaching in its schools for 41 years and becoming a generous benefactor. Even after relocating to California in 1963, she kept close ties to her hometown, willing $1,000,000 to the Forest Park Public Library to build its present home. Imber’s contributions reflect her deep commitment to Forest Park.
1898-1983
Helen Imber dedicated her life to Forest Park, teaching in its schools for 41 years and becoming a generous benefactor. Even after relocating to California in 1963, she kept close ties to her hometown, willing $1,000,000 to the Forest Park Public Library to build its present home. Imber’s contributions reflect her deep commitment to Forest Park.
Dorothy Spinelli
1915 - 2018
Edwina (Dorothy) Spinelli nee Bruschi was a cherished Forest Park resident since 1948. A devoted member of St. Bernardine Church and the Italian Catholic Federation, Dorothy embodied community spirit alongside her husband, Angelo. Known for her storytelling and old-world cooking, she shared vibrant tales of her Taylor Street childhood while fostering connections through friendship and family. In 2014, the 1100 block of Circle Avenue was given the honorary name of Dorothy and Angelo Spinelli Way.
1915 - 2018
Edwina (Dorothy) Spinelli nee Bruschi was a cherished Forest Park resident since 1948. A devoted member of St. Bernardine Church and the Italian Catholic Federation, Dorothy embodied community spirit alongside her husband, Angelo. Known for her storytelling and old-world cooking, she shared vibrant tales of her Taylor Street childhood while fostering connections through friendship and family. In 2014, the 1100 block of Circle Avenue was given the honorary name of Dorothy and Angelo Spinelli Way.
Dr. Phyllis Orland
1919-2009
Dr. Phyllis Orland was a highly respected pediatrician and advocate for the polio vaccine in Forest Park and Chicago. She attended the University of Illinois at a time when women comprised only a small percentage of the class. She went on to become a published author and speaker on children's health. She was recognized for her contributions in the 1972-1973 edition of "Who's Who of American Women.
1919-2009
Dr. Phyllis Orland was a highly respected pediatrician and advocate for the polio vaccine in Forest Park and Chicago. She attended the University of Illinois at a time when women comprised only a small percentage of the class. She went on to become a published author and speaker on children's health. She was recognized for her contributions in the 1972-1973 edition of "Who's Who of American Women.
Mae M. Baldridge
1919 - 2012
Mae M. Baldridge resided in Forest Park for 41 years, serving the village in numerous capacities. She was a Board of Health member for 19 years, a Girl Scout Brownie leader, and an active participant in the PTA. Mae also contributed significantly to public health initiatives, organizing programs such as polio vaccinations, the Rubella Program, and Meals on Wheels. Additionally, she played a key role in fundraising for various causes and served as a nurse in multiple programs and schools within the community.
1919 - 2012
Mae M. Baldridge resided in Forest Park for 41 years, serving the village in numerous capacities. She was a Board of Health member for 19 years, a Girl Scout Brownie leader, and an active participant in the PTA. Mae also contributed significantly to public health initiatives, organizing programs such as polio vaccinations, the Rubella Program, and Meals on Wheels. Additionally, she played a key role in fundraising for various causes and served as a nurse in multiple programs and schools within the community.
Cora Sallee
1920-2003
Cora Sallee was a devoted advocate for Forest Park throughout her life, preserving and sharing the village's rich history with its citizens. During 30 years of service at the Forest Park Public Library, she was known for her willingness to engage with visitors, her warm, approachable demeanor, and for her role as the custodian of the library's history files. Cora was a founding member of the Historical Society of Forest Park and one of its most active participants.
1920-2003
Cora Sallee was a devoted advocate for Forest Park throughout her life, preserving and sharing the village's rich history with its citizens. During 30 years of service at the Forest Park Public Library, she was known for her willingness to engage with visitors, her warm, approachable demeanor, and for her role as the custodian of the library's history files. Cora was a founding member of the Historical Society of Forest Park and one of its most active participants.
Mathilde Petersohn
Mathilde Petersohn, civic leader, served Forest Park for over 50 years selling WWI “Liberty” bonds and helping organize the WWI soldiers’ homecoming and the Proviso Relief fund. She helped launch the Day Nursery, Forest Park National Bank, and the Garden Club. She served on the D91 Board of Education from 1948 to 1966 and was the first woman to serve as Board President. She also served from 1934 to 1971 on the Forest Park Library Board
Mathilde Petersohn, civic leader, served Forest Park for over 50 years selling WWI “Liberty” bonds and helping organize the WWI soldiers’ homecoming and the Proviso Relief fund. She helped launch the Day Nursery, Forest Park National Bank, and the Garden Club. She served on the D91 Board of Education from 1948 to 1966 and was the first woman to serve as Board President. She also served from 1934 to 1971 on the Forest Park Library Board
Josephine Austin
Josephine Austin became a Forest Park librarian in 1936 and then again in 1952. She was later
appointed to the position of Library Director and oversaw the library from its early days through 1973. The largest meeting room at the library has been named in her honor.
Josephine Austin became a Forest Park librarian in 1936 and then again in 1952. She was later
appointed to the position of Library Director and oversaw the library from its early days through 1973. The largest meeting room at the library has been named in her honor.
Jackie Schulz
1931-2023
Jackie Schulz, treasured as the "Matriarch of Forest Park," left an indelible mark on her community through her iconic Forest Park Review column "Talk of the Town," which spanned nearly 2,500 issues from 1970 to 2017. Wide-ranging and chatty, her column was a loving tribute to Forest Park. Born on the far South Side of Chicago, she dedicated 43 years to teaching in Chicago Public Schools. Jackie's thirst for exploration took her from the streets of Forest Park to the distant corners of Asia and Europe, and she shared her love of travel with her readers. Her passion for music led her to become an accomplished pianist and cellist with the Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest.
1931-2023
Jackie Schulz, treasured as the "Matriarch of Forest Park," left an indelible mark on her community through her iconic Forest Park Review column "Talk of the Town," which spanned nearly 2,500 issues from 1970 to 2017. Wide-ranging and chatty, her column was a loving tribute to Forest Park. Born on the far South Side of Chicago, she dedicated 43 years to teaching in Chicago Public Schools. Jackie's thirst for exploration took her from the streets of Forest Park to the distant corners of Asia and Europe, and she shared her love of travel with her readers. Her passion for music led her to become an accomplished pianist and cellist with the Symphony of Oak Park and River Forest.
May Bill
1920 - 2022
May Rose Bill was a beloved presence in Forest Park and was deeply involved in civic life. She dedicated herself to organizations like the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, the Eagles, and the Women’s Club of Forest Park, where she served as President. During her 25-year tenure on the Forest Park Public Library Board she worked to enhance community access to resources. Beyond her civic duties, May enjoyed cooking, sewing, tennis, and bowling at Circle Lanes. Fondly known as the "punch lady" on Beloit Avenue, she nurtured a close-knit neighborhood. A centenarian, May's 100th birthday was celebrated with a parade, paying tribute to her enduring impact and community devotion.
1920 - 2022
May Rose Bill was a beloved presence in Forest Park and was deeply involved in civic life. She dedicated herself to organizations like the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, the Eagles, and the Women’s Club of Forest Park, where she served as President. During her 25-year tenure on the Forest Park Public Library Board she worked to enhance community access to resources. Beyond her civic duties, May enjoyed cooking, sewing, tennis, and bowling at Circle Lanes. Fondly known as the "punch lady" on Beloit Avenue, she nurtured a close-knit neighborhood. A centenarian, May's 100th birthday was celebrated with a parade, paying tribute to her enduring impact and community devotion.
Lorraine Popelka
1932-2007
Lorraine Popelka is a prominent figure in Forest Park known for her public service as the village's first female mayor and for her dedication to the Park District. Many swimmers at the Park District of Forest Park know her as the woman who taught them how to swim. She served as a village commissioner for eight years and as mayor for twelve years and was known for her commitment to the community and its families.
1932-2007
Lorraine Popelka is a prominent figure in Forest Park known for her public service as the village's first female mayor and for her dedication to the Park District. Many swimmers at the Park District of Forest Park know her as the woman who taught them how to swim. She served as a village commissioner for eight years and as mayor for twelve years and was known for her commitment to the community and its families.
Roberta Marunde
1940-2012
Roberta Dolores Marunde (nee Slavik) married Friedhelm “Fred” Marunde, mayor of Forest Park. She worked at Oak Park Trust and Savings Bank and devoted much of her life to caring for her family, particularly her daughter Kimary, who battled a rare brain tumor for eight years. Roberta volunteered extensively, including at Altenheim senior residence and Hope Lutheran Church in Florida, where she helped feed the homeless. A soprano, she and Fred sang with several choirs. Roberta’s dedication to her family, community, and service left a lasting impact.
1940-2012
Roberta Dolores Marunde (nee Slavik) married Friedhelm “Fred” Marunde, mayor of Forest Park. She worked at Oak Park Trust and Savings Bank and devoted much of her life to caring for her family, particularly her daughter Kimary, who battled a rare brain tumor for eight years. Roberta volunteered extensively, including at Altenheim senior residence and Hope Lutheran Church in Florida, where she helped feed the homeless. A soprano, she and Fred sang with several choirs. Roberta’s dedication to her family, community, and service left a lasting impact.
Cindy Lyons
1947-1998
Cindy Lyons oversaw the social service programs for the elderly and food insecure through the Howard Mohr Community Center. She was known in the community for going above and beyond to help people in need. In 1987 she was given the Forest Park citizen of the year award
1947-1998
Cindy Lyons oversaw the social service programs for the elderly and food insecure through the Howard Mohr Community Center. She was known in the community for going above and beyond to help people in need. In 1987 she was given the Forest Park citizen of the year award