Helen Ann (Vogel) Bjorkman

Helen Ann Bjorkman (Vogel) was born in Chicago, IL on June 24, 1927, spending her youth in Rogers Park, IL where she attended Senn High School. She was fortunate to enjoy a storybook marriage with her late husband of 58 years, Stanley Robert Bjorkman, also of Chicago. Her passion in life was her family and we were the fortunate recipients of a lifetime of unconditional love. Mom radiated love and joy through her every pore, spreading light, life, and laughter to everyone, including every stranger she met. Her personality was magnetic! She made everyone she met feel special and made the world a better place.

Mom was blessed with an incredibly large circle of relatives and friends of all ages who deeply enriched her life and vice versa. She communicated with every family member and friend into her final days, writing cards and sending emails until late into the night. The telephone and email were her best friends, allowing her to stay connected with all. Cooking was her other life passion. Mom was a phenomenal cook and loved to entertain, discuss food and share recipes with any willing party.

She is survived by her children: son Steve (Margie), Stacy and Bret; son Craig (Bonnie), Colin, Garett, Griffin; daughter Jann Ryu (Tom), Eric, Rachel, David, Jared, and daughter Diane (Bill), Mari, Anna, Lynn, Erin.

Her TowerLight home in MN is where she established rich friendships that grew through the last ten years of her life. We extend sincere and heartfelt gratitude to her amazing caregivers, especially Nadiia Pavlenko, (mom’s full-time caregiver for the past nine years), Tommi Proue, and the many compassionate TowerLight staff. She lived joyfully until her final day. The family will gather for a private celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed at Mom’s favorite charitable organizations McHenry Food Pantry and Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.   Please see below for the links to these organizations.