LOUISE ROBERTS VANDYKE, ACTIVE COMMUNITY & CHURCH VOLUNTEER, DIES AT 87

    Louise Roberts VanDyke, a tireless worker for others throughout her life, died December 29 at age 87.
    She was born March 16, 1924, in Chicago, the fifth child of Bessie Louise Coles and John Coles, Sr. Louise received her formal education in the Chicago Public Schools, graduating from McKinley High School. She later continued her education by completing business college.
    Louise married Samuel A. VanDyke, a childhood friend, in 1949. Louise began her career with the Federal government, working for FHA & HUD. Later, she shifted her career path, working in the Chicago Public Schools at Nathan Goldblatt School and as a member of the original staff of Whitney M. Young Magnet School, one of Chicago’s premier schools.
    Louise was baptized at Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica on September 14, 1969, but her history of involvement with the church and its community dates back to 1960. She worked actively with Our Lady of Sorrows Parent Teacher Association, the Council of Catholic Women, the Order of Secular Servants of Mary, the Dignity Breakfast Program, Prime Time Connection Seniors, and The First Saturday Crew. In addition to being a Lector, Minister of Care, and Eucharist Minister, she proudly served as Sergeant-at-Arms and Mother of the Court for The Knights and Ladies of St. Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary.
    Her community involvement with organizations such as the Friends of Columbus Park Food Pantry, where she volunteered for three years, fueled her passion for giving.
    Louise is preceded in death by her husband of more than 50 years; her beloved parents; and cherished siblings, John Coles, Jr., Thomas Coles, Ida McGuire, Earskin Coles, Leslie Coles, and Charles Coles.
    Louise touched a multitude of lives. Her warm smile and gracious heart will forever be remembered by her beloved sons, Kenneth VanDyke and Brian M. VanDyke; her daughter Renee L. White (John); grandsons William E. White, Fredrick J. White (Denise), and Kyle VanDyke; her great-grandchildren Lauren White, Elliott White, and Keyati White. In addition to her niece, Melanie Coles, she leaves her nephews, Alan and Joseph (Barbara); her sister-in-law, Virginia; and a host of beloved cousins, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and a host of cherished friends.
    Funeral services for Louise VanDyle are being held Saturday, January 7, at Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica, 3121 West Jackson Boulevard. The wake is at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral at 11:00. She is being buried in Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.