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Audrey Lakin Obituary

Lakin, Audrey Elrod

Audrey Elrod Lakin, the charismatic, fun-loving, and friend to all, passed away at the age of 61. Audrey was the loving mother of David (Sarah) Lakin and Lauren Lakin (Randall Kenworthy). She was the beloved daughter of Marilyn Elrod and the late Honorable Richard J. Elrod; the best friend and sister of Steven (Donna) Elrod; the proud aunt of Elizabeth (Russell) Mollen, Daniel (Ali) Elrod, Sara (Joseph) David, Stephen (Emily) Golembiewski, and Jacob Lakin, as well as many great-nephews and nieces; and the devoted girlfriend of Tom Digan; and to all who knew her: she was the life of the party, whether she was planning it, or living it. She will be greatly missed by all. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the A Silver Lining Foundation, 134 N. LaSalle, Suite 1218, Chicago, IL 60602, https://www.asilverliningfoundation.org. To attend the funeral live stream, please visit our website. Arrangement by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847-229-8822, www.cjfinfo.com

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times from Feb. 11 to Feb. 12, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Audrey Lakin

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Ralph

December 17, 2025

Condolences to both the Elrod & Lakin Family. I met Audrey my sophomore year in high school. I went to Nile´s East and was introduced to her through a mutual friend. She was funny, sweet and tenacious. We quickly became friends, often running into each other throughout the next two years. Last time I saw her was the summer of 78 at the Skulnick party in Wilmett. She was a good friend and will be missed.

John Yatczyshyn

April 2, 2024

I worked with Audrey on many of her events. I'm retired now but I just want to pass through and reconfirm that Audrey was a very attractive woman with a wonderful soul, full of life, a kind lady with a radiant personality and glowing smile. She knew how to dress, always looked flawlessly put together. More importantly, I used make Audrey laugh as I'd turn the most serious of moments into very a funny situation. No doubt Audrey is in heaven making it a far more beautiful place than when she entered. May her memory be for a blessing.

Jane Strauss

February 5, 2023

Thinking of your family today and sending love and peace.
We lit a candle for Aud 4.

Janie & Michael Strauss

Brad Serot

March 3, 2021

My deepest condolences to Audrey´s family. She was a bright light and always filled the room with smiles and an energy you cannot explain. She was so beyond kind, caring and passionate. She will be missed. Many prayers and blessings to Audrey, and her family.

john c angileri

March 1, 2021

Steve ,,I am so sorry to hear about your sister,,, Marty told me ,,, She will be in our prayers always !! John Angileri

Karyn Meyers-Golden

February 24, 2021

Marilyn and Steven, I am so saddened and broken-hearted over this tragic news. I remember the sweet, adorable, cute little girl who grew into a lovely woman, mother and I am sure so much more. My thoughts are in your hearts and may her memory be for a blessing. Karyn Meyers Golden

Larry Ginsburg

February 21, 2021

I can’t begin to share the sorrow I feel and my families about Audrey’s passing. Too soon, unexpected and makes us all wonder how fragile our lives are. Her kindness to my children is unforgettable.
May she be somehow in a better place as she made our place a better place.

Larry Ginsburg and family

Eddie Lakin

February 20, 2021

Offering our deepest condolences, what a sudden and shocking loss! Life is so precious. Sending love to the family.

susan levinson

February 16, 2021

My deepest condolences to Audrey´s family. I met Audrey 40 years ago through mutual friends and life got in the way and we lost touch with each other. I had the privilege of hearing her magnificent children speak and know Audrey must have been a most wonderful mother to have raised such fabulous kids. I wish I could run into Audrey and tell
her what a great job she did! May her memory be for a blessing.

Eileen Davis Heffernan

February 16, 2021

I went to Kindergarten with her at Clinton. She was so much fun and a nice person.
Eileen (Davis) Heffernan

Eileen Davis Heffernan

February 16, 2021

I went to Kindergarten with her at Clinton. She was so much fun and a nice person.
Eileen (Davis) Heffernan

Howard Meyer

February 15, 2021

The COLBA and Chicago commercial real estate family will never be the same. Always with a smile for everyone... Aud, as I called her, was a bright fixture bringing energy, style and fun to so many industry events. She set the bar! Such a tragic loss for all who had the good fortune to know her. May her memory be a blessing.

Olga Pierce

February 15, 2021

Audrey was a trail blazer in this industry!
A professional, knowledgeable, a force in the real estate corporate market of event planning. Whether Brokers Open Houses or Tenant Events, Audrey had the creative talent, executed well, and always had the insight scoop and contacts.
We admired her tenacity and drive.
She will be missed by many.

With our sympathy to Audrey´s family,
Olga and CUI Team
Olga S. Pierce, Founder, President, WBE
CONCIERGE UNLIMITED INTERNATIONAL, est. 1982

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Ted and Anita Kenworthy

Planted Trees

Dan Kotin

February 14, 2021

Steve:
I am so, so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine how you and you family are feeling right now. I've heard wonderful things about Audrey in just the past 2 days. Jean and I will keep you and your family in our prayers, and we'll see you at the Shiva this afternoon.

Anita and Ted Kenworthy

February 14, 2021

Audrey embraced us with friendship, kindness, and fun. She had a glow about her that touched everyone she met with her sparkle and warmth. Audrey welcomed us into her loving family. We were blessed to have known her. We will miss Audrey so much. Our deepest condolences to the family.

Goldie Wolfe Miller

February 14, 2021

So sorry to the Lakin-Elrod family on their loss of Audrey. She was truly amazing. Always a smile on her face with a creative “idea” soon following. She worked with me over the past few years on putting the “Goldie Gala” on the map in the real estate community. Her professional spirit and enthusiasm were a welcome partner. I truly believe an important part of our success was due to her making fund raising “fun.” And her passion for whatever she did with us was just contagious. She will be missed by all.

Goldie Wolfe Miller

Jackie & Steve Chilow

February 14, 2021

Our heartfelt condolences goes out to Marilyn, Steve, David, Lauren and the entire Elrod & Lakin family. Audrey exuded love and joy to everyone who met her. Her smile and joy for life was infectious. I was lucky to call her my friend. She will forever be remembered and missed.

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Nancy Kenworthy

Planted Trees

Sheldon & Jane Harris

February 13, 2021

We are deeply saddened by Audrey's untimely passing. Our sympathy goes out to her family, especially dear friends mother Marilyn and brother Steve.

Elyse Flack

February 13, 2021

To all of the Elrod and Lakin family. I have been gone from Highland Park for many years now however, with a feeling of shock i attended the zoom. Just wanted to share the impact Audrey had on me as her neighbor. My dog Blazer was best friends with Rosy and Rugby. He would run from our yard on Greenwood to Audrey's yard on Priscilla to visit. When they had both passed Audrey wanted Sophie to meet Blazer- she walked Sophie over to our house for them to "meet". I remember all of the "play dates" we had in the side yard sitting and talking while the dogs played. Often libations were included as well as a bowl of candy. Never did I leave her yard without some pieces of candy in my pocket. She was always full of life and a sharing neighbor. May her memory be a blessing to all of us who knew her. Elyse Flack

ReneeVearak

February 13, 2021

My heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your daughter , mother, sister and best friend to many.

Jane & Michael Strauss

February 13, 2021

Forever embellished in our minds are the beauty and light, Audrey brought to so many. Her infectious smile and unconditional love for her children, family and friends.
I will always carry our times spent with grace, admiration and love. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you all each and every day. Memories are abundant and will be cherished.
Love and hugs to all!
Jane & Michael Strauss

Craig Harrison

February 13, 2021

My most heartfelt condolences to the Elrod and Lakin families.
Losing beautiful and full of love and life Audrey this soon is beyond any words. I first became friends with Audrey when we were 17. We rekindled our friendship on the pickle courts 2 years ago. The wonderful service you were kind enough to share fully embodied the shinning star Audrey was and will always be. My heart aches.

Ed Chupack

February 13, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of this loss and am thinking of the wonderful Elrod family who have done so much for so many. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and know that you are in my thoughts.

Jackie Shear

February 13, 2021

My beautiful friend...
Always greetings with a smile & a giggle. Always inquiring, "how´s your family?" One memory, most likely implies a multitude of qualities; when you came to me for a haircut, donning those fabulous shades! I said to you, "I have to try them on!" Then, you insisted that I kept them. You would not take "no" for an answer. I have to say, my daughter paid me the same compliment, and I passed them along to her-in the manner in which they were given. A special twinkle of generosity. Like the twinkle in your eyes and on this photo.
Regrettably, have not seen you in quite some time. I will always remember your smile, your sparkle, this story- You.
My heart goes out to your family & friends and everyone whose lives you´ve touched; who are grieving during this difficult time.
Much love & light to all,
All Ways,
Xo Jac

Ellen Richmonf

February 12, 2021

Last month We said after Covid we would get together. I was so upset to here what happened... Rest in piece beautiful Audrey. The service was amazing.....

Rachel Weisman

February 12, 2021

I am completely heartbroken and at a loss for words. Audrey was one of my moms best friends and my friend too. She was the MOST fun dinner date, pickle ball competitor, mentor, dance partner, and person to sit and do nothing with. Her confidence and zest for life were inspiring and contagious and being in her presence always made my smile and feel good. I am forever grateful for her generosity, support, and sincere love. There is truly no on like her. I miss her so much already...

I love you, forever and always, Audrey!
- Rachie


May Her Memory Be a Blessing

Lyn Maslansky

February 12, 2021

Dear Marilyn and Stephen,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Audrey. I have fond memories of spending time with Audrey and "Stevie" when I was younger. Sending hugs., kind thoughts and prayers to you at the terrible and difficult time. Xo lyn maslansky

Lindsay Saewitz

February 12, 2021

Lakin family,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Audrey's passing and am so, so sorry for your loss. I was always so excited to learn of Audrey joining us for a dinner or family celebration because she was so much fun. She was also always willing to talk to me about the event planning business and how she could help. My sincerest condolences, Lindsay Saewitz (Andrea's step-daughter)

anonymous

February 12, 2021

may your memory be a blessing

Marcy Braverman Stillman

February 12, 2021

Audrey was my classmate in grade school at Clinton.
She was the prettiest, had the greatest clothes and always so nice to be around.
And funny!
Part of my childhood died today!

LOuise Terlep

February 12, 2021

Dear Marilyn , my deepest sympathy on the loss of your daughter. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Jill Meyerhoff

February 12, 2021

..great memories of Audrey from Chippewa, to visiting with her at the restaurant where I work...always fun chats and catching up...I loved her spirit and creativity. What an enormous JOY she was to be around.

Penny Izenson

February 12, 2021

I´m so sorry she was a fabulous woman and mother daughter . My prayers go to all the family and especially Marlyn.. I know there are no words to help. love Penny

Lizie Stagman Lazar and Cookie Stagman

February 12, 2021

We are absolutely heartbroken for all of you! What a beautiful service. Our hearts and prayers are with you on this sad sad day and always! Audrey was always so beautiful and so funny! Thinking of Audrey just makes us smile. What a devastating loss for everyone that knew her. She will be missed but not forgotten. She is now the most beautiful angel and will be loving you all from above! Thinking of you and sending our love

Steven J. Weinberg

February 12, 2021

To the Elrod´s and the Lakin´s:
Nothing I can say to express my heartfelt sympathy for your sudden loss. Audrey always put a smile on my face.

Frank Dylewski

February 12, 2021

With deepest condolences, I hope that your family can find some amount of peace in knowing that Audrey's spirit will live on in all of the beautiful people she surrounded herself with.

Dana Goldsmith GORDON

February 12, 2021

To the entire Elrod -Lakin family. We are so terribly sorry for your loss. May her wonderful life be for a blessing. Dana and Lee Gordon family

Juli Shapiro

February 12, 2021

Elrod and Lakin families,
My heartfelt sympathies & condolences go out to you all. Audrey was a bright light & powerful force that took on the world with spirit & gusto!! Audrey was an amazing person in every way & she will forever be remembered & missed.

Michelle Bowers

February 12, 2021

I´m bereft at the reality of a world without Audrey. She made us all feel so special. I complimented her on a tennis skirt and it was delivered in a decorative bag within the week! Every time I would get a compliment on my beautiful "new" Lululemon skirt, I would respond with pride that "Audrey Lakin gave me this skirt!" She will be a source of inspiration to me to live with an open heart and a zest for life. My deepest condolences to her entire family. Our community mourns with you.

Dana Greenspan Gellman

February 12, 2021

I am sorry to hear of Audrey's passing. I adored her and she was the most fun to be around. Just the sweetest. Sending love to the whole family.
Dana

Colleen Saurbier

February 12, 2021

What a beautiful service for a beautiful woman! No words can describe how much she will be missed! I am a better person for knowing her! My deepest condolences.

Danny Nikitas

February 12, 2021

I love you, sister, always will! God's peace up there where you are!

David Borris

February 12, 2021

Such a shock - and tragic loss. A bright light in the lives of all who knew her , intimately or casually. Gone in body, but not in spirit. Miss you Audrey.

Linda Pargh Mossman

February 12, 2021

I´m so sad to hear of Audrey´s passing. She was my little sister in SDT at Tulane and she was so much fun. Sending my condolences to Elrod and Lakin family.

Carol Harrison

February 12, 2021

Marilyn: My thoughts are with you with hopes you can find some peace and ease of pain when remembering happier times. Love, Carol

Cailin Rogers

February 12, 2021

The world lost its brightest light this week. Audrey exuded joy and love everywhere she went -- everyone she met adored her instantaneously. We were all so lucky to get to know her, and she is gone far too soon. I am sending my deepest condolences to Audrey's family.

Nadine Siegel

February 12, 2021

Audrey was one of my favorite's. So full of life, love, passion, and humor. My deepest condolences go out to her wonderful David and Lauren, her beautiful mom, and her extended family. May her memory be a blessing.

Nancy and Philip Schmidt and Alison and Jared Small

February 12, 2021

We have no words to express our sadness upon learning about Audreys tragic death.
Thinking of all of you

Betsy Barstead

February 12, 2021

Dear Marilyn, With much sympathy for the loss of Audrey, such a lovely inspirational lady who will be missed by all. May your memories of the wonderful love you shared with her assuage your feelings of loss. Betsy Barstead

Gilat & Mitchell Zamost

February 12, 2021

Gilat and I are so so sorry for your loss Audrey was such a nice person.
Our condolences to the family.

Andy Snow

February 12, 2021

David and family.

My heart break at this news. Myself and my family are always available if you need anything.

Iain Johnston

February 12, 2021

I am so sorry for your loss.

Nadine Rozowsky

February 12, 2021

I am saddened on the tragic loss of Audrey. She was always so kind and full of life. I will miss running into her and Sophie who she loved so much. Gone from our world way too soon but always fondly remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this devastating time.

Haley

February 12, 2021

What an amazing person and what a remarkable life.

Audrey Rubin

February 11, 2021

I can´t believe it. It´s devastating. She was the cutest, sweetest girl in all of lincolnwood. My heart breaks for you. I wish I could hug you in person. May God´s grace be with you.

Neal Keeshin

February 11, 2021

Steve, I was so sorry to hear of your sister’s untimely demise. Life is such a crap shoot. These tragedies remind us to try to enjoy every day and to cherish our loved ones.

Dana Eckert

February 11, 2021

I'm devastated and my heart is broken. I can't imagine the world without Audrey in it. She was a bright light. Life was always more fun when shared with Audrey. I will miss her smile, her quick laugh, her wonderful sense of humor, her love of life, and sense of adventure. We lived together in college, and again in Chicago after grad school as well. She was in my wedding, and we have been friends for more than forty years. Audrey loved her family and friends with all her heart, and she was loved by all who knew her. My heart breaks for her beautiful family - Marilyn, Stephen, Donna, Lauren, David and Tom, and all her extended family and friends who loved her deeply. Sending you all so much love and my deepest condolences. I hope you can find peace and healing in the coming year. With love and great sadness, Dana

Dana Eckert

February 11, 2021

I'm devastated and my heart is broken. I can't imagine the world without Audrey in it. She was a bright light. Life was always more fun when shared with Audrey. I will miss her smile, her quick laugh, her wonderful sense of humor, her love of life, and sense of adventure. We lived together in college, and again in Chicago after grad school as well. She was in my wedding, and we have been friends for more than forty years. Audrey loved her family and friends with all her heart, and she was loved by all who knew her. My heart breaks for her beautiful family - Marilyn, Stephen, Donna, Lauren, David and Tom, and all her extended family and friends who loved her deeply. Sending you all so much love and my deepest condolences. I hope you can find peace and healing in the coming year. With love and great sadness, Dana

Jodi Spak Kirsch

February 11, 2021

A heart breaking loss. Audrey was a force. My sincere condolences.

Iris Pollan

February 11, 2021

Lakin family,
Our sincere condolences on the tragic loss of Audrey.
Iris and Jerry Pollan

Iris Wittenberg

February 11, 2021

Dear Marilyn
I was so shocked and saddened about reading of the sudden loss of your beautiful daughter, Audrey. My thoughts are with you and your family at this most difficult time.

Todd Heller

February 11, 2021

So sad.
My condolences to the Lakin and Elrod families.

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Dana Eckert

Planted Trees

Marvin Aspen

February 11, 2021

Dear Marilyn, Steve, David and Lauren,

I was saddened to learn of the passing of Audrey. I know the closeness of the Elrod family and how much Audrey was loved by all. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Marvin Aspen

Scott Hess

February 11, 2021

I am so sad to hear of this, and I send my condolences to Audrey's friends, family, and other loved ones. Who was more alive and memorable than Audrey? No one. Her memory is already a blessing, and her spirit and her laughter and her hilarious expressions will live on for so many of us that she touched. Sincere wishes for peace to her family in this difficult time.

Barbara Walner

February 11, 2021

I am so sorry

Lee Preston

February 11, 2021

Our deepest sympathies to the Lakin and Elrod families on the way too early passing of your Mother, Daughter, Sister and Friend. May she Rest In Peace.

Ken Silverstein

February 11, 2021

Audrey and I met in 1978 at Tulane University when we were both Freshman. While we had lost contact in the intervening years, we last saw each other at a class reunion a few years ago. And we picked up right we left off. I will miss her. My sincere condolences to Mrs. Elrod and her brother Steve, who was also my friend, and especially Audrey’s kids.

Robert and Donna Feldman

February 11, 2021

Our condolences for your loss. Our best wishes to the family in these difficult times. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Judi & Bob Lakin

February 11, 2021

We were part of her circle for many years and Audrey included us in many happy gatherings. She will be missed !

Scott Sandroff

February 10, 2021

Devastated. My love and condolences go to Audrey's family and all our friends. What a beautiful soul. That smile. The laugh. The giggle. The "I'm up to no good" twinkle in her eye. Always knowing that when you hang with Audrey, something fun was going to happen. When I think of you, Audrey, I smile - a wonderful legacy to leave us all. Audrey, sweetie, you were, are, and will always be loved.

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