Gwendolyn Westlund Obituary

Westlund, Gwendolyn Marie

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Gwendolyn M. Westlund on June 7, 2025, at the age of 44.

Born on April 27, 1981, in Hinsdale, Illinois, Gwen (née Lyons) was a force of light in this world-compassionate, creative, and courageous. A survivor of cancer and recipient of a heart transplant, Gwen turned her trials into triumphs and devoted her life to helping others navigate their own health journeys. She became a steadfast advocate and mentor to fellow and future transplant patients, offering hope, strength, and guidance when it was needed most.

A proud champion and ambassador of the Gift of Hope organization, Gwen organized countless outreach efforts, crafted "Hope Ornaments" to honor organ donors and recipients, and spoke passionately at schools and public events about the importance of organ donation-once even sharing her time with Secretary of State Jesse White. Her tireless work extended to coordinating blood drives with Life Source, further cementing her role as a community pillar and life-saving advocate.

Outside her advocacy, Gwen's artistic spirit shone brightly. A talented and beloved makeup artist, she earned the affectionate title of "Queen of Halloween" for her elaborate and creative transformations each year. Her vibrant energy and talent brought joy to many, and her presence lit up every room she entered.

Gwen's greatest joy, however, was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert T. Westlund; her beloved siblings Bridget (Samantha) Lyons-Gaines, Madelyn (Hector) Martinez, Theresa Moody, and Thomas J. Lyons; her step-siblings Blanche Kelly and Kevin Kelly; her parents-both biological and chosen; her cherished nieces and nephews Delilah, Jeronimo, Lorelai, and Evangeline Martinez, Kodiak and Kai Kelly, Abigail Kelly, Sheamus and Amelia Lyons; and her best friend and soul sister, Pamela Overgaard Rocco, along with Pamela's daughter, Evie, whom Gwen loved as her own. Gwen spent much of her life caring for her younger sisters, holding them close with fierce love and unwavering dedication.

To know Gwen was to be inspired. Her beauty radiated from within, her words uplifted the weary, and her life was a living testament to resilience and generosity. She was a beacon for so many-a symbol of courage, kindness, and purpose.

As we mourn Gwen's passing, we also celebrate the joy and peace that is promised in the presence of God:

"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy" -Psalm 16:11

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gwen's memory can be made to Gift of Hope Illinois, so that her legacy of giving and healing may continue.

Memorial services will be held at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Darien, IL

June 20, 2025 at 10:00am with an RSVP Luncheon at Duke's Banquets to follow.

Though she has left this world, Gwen's light will never fade. It lives on in the lives she touched, the lives she saved, and the love she gave so freely.

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