Grace Rothrock, 72, a 44-year resident of Hinsdale, passed away unexpectedly Feb. 25, 2022.
She was born in 1949 in Chicago to Anthony and Florence Lewandowski as the youngest of five children. She and her siblings - Mary Ann Smith, Carrie Ulane, Margie Andresunias and Anthony Lee - were remarkably close.
Grace was a proud graduate of Eastern Illinois University where she met Richard, to whom she was married for 50 years. She earned a master's degree from Northeastern Illinois University. She continued personal and professional education throughout her life. She was an enthusiastic third-grade teacher in the Maercker district for 20 years before retiring. She was a strong social justice advocate and appreciated lively political discussion.
In retirement she dove into her passion of landscaping and gardening. She also enjoyed reading, walking and puzzles. She relished time with her family - there was nothing she enjoyed more than reading with her grandchildren.
Grace is survived by her husband, Richard; her sons, Nick and Elliot; and her five grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held this summer.
