Ingrid Susan Graf

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St Ignatius High School Loyola University Chicago Oberlin College University of Illinois

Ingrid Graf Obituary

Graf, Ingrid Susan a remarkably bright and engaging young woman, much loved by friends and family, died on March 29th at the age of 40. A graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep and Oberlin College, Ingrid continued her pursuit of useful knowledge by completing two masters degrees: Masters of Social Work at Loyola University, and an M.B.A. at the University of Illinois. Ingrid applied her great intellect to helping people, working first at the Department of Children and Family Services, and then for 11 years at the University of Illinois Survey Research Lab, where her colleagues appreciated her energy and imagination, and her skill at planning and directing their important social science projects and coordinating their efforts. She is survived by her boyfriend Chris Williams and her immediate family -cousins Cindy Paulauskas, Terri Lydon and Tom Lydon, uncles John Radner and John Reque, aunt Barbara Radner, and mother Mary Ann Pike - as well as by hundreds of friends. Her family is deeply thankful for the great efforts of the Chicago Fire Department and the extraordinary care of the doctors, nurses and staff at Northwestern Hospital, and for the many kindnesses of Father Paulson and Ingrid's friends during this time of loss. There was a private burial on March 31st, and there will be a Memorial Service on May 16th where her hundreds of friends can celebrate her life and enduring friendship. "In a chaotic world, friendship is the most elegant, the most lasting way to be useful. We are, each of us, a living testament to our friends' compassion and tolerance, humor and wisdom, patience and grit." (Lonely Planet, Steven Dietz, 1992.) The family has established a scholarship fund at St. Ignatius to honor Ingrid. For information, contact Tom Ramsden 312-432-8346, [email protected]. Service Info 847-675-1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times from Apr. 1 to Apr. 5, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Ingrid Graf

5 Entries

Stephie Leinwohl

April 6, 2009

A true Chicagoan with love of music, arts, literature, culture and social justice. Ingrid was a true sister friend to me during my happiest and darkest moments. I hold on to fond memories of punk shows, art openings, Goodman Theater shows, Glogg at Simon's - a holiday tradition, boating with dear Christopher and our friends on Lake Michigan. Bless your heart Ingrid..I love you.

Joe McCauley

April 5, 2009

I was very sad to see that we had lost Ingrid recently. I was lucky enough to be friends with her at St. Ignatius, although as life progressed, we lost touch. She was a true idealist, and clearly one of the few who was able to go on into a life of service to those ideals.

To her friends and family, I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Chris Holden

April 1, 2009

Having known and enjoyed Ingrid as my upstairs neighbor for only 6 years,I give my truly heartfelt sympathy to her family, who were fortunate watch her become the wonderful person she was! 2 years ago she took MY backpack to Central America. 2 months ago she cared for my cat when I left the USA for 3 weeks,and readily offered wine when she, Chris and I swapped tales of the joys of travel... and travelers. She turned me on to Anthony Bourdain, No Reservations. Her ready grin and sparkling eyes will forever be with me! The memories are wonderful, this loss so sad.

B Dougherty

April 1, 2009

Ingrid was someone special and I am sorry to hear of her passing. I am glad I got to know her from SICP and riding the el sometimes. It was also a pleasure to give her a ride in the dark either to or from Maywood on the day of our speech meets. She was a sweet, sharp and funny person especially to this underclassman.

Debra

April 1, 2009

I want to express my sympathy at the loss of your loved one. It sounds as if she led a very full and meaningful life. Having lost loved ones myself I know how difficult the days ahead can be. Look to God for the strength that only he can give. 1 Peter 5:10 says, he will make you firm, he will make you strong.

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