In Memory

Edward Gerstein

Ed Gerstein died recently.  Below is his obituary which appeared in the Chicago Tribune.

Ed Gerstein, age 76, died on August 31st, 2021 surrounded by his loving wife of 42 years, Judie (nee Schiff), his constant friend and son, Max, and in spirit his late son, Sam. He was the fond brother of the late Stanley Gerstein (Glenda). He is also survived by his brother Allen Gerstein (Joyce), his adored nephews and nieces Cindy Gerstein, Donald Gerstein (Mary Jane), Brian Gerstein (Jaqueline), Robert Gerstein (Mary), Betsy Bluestone (Larry), Susan Oleari (Josh), and by his cherished grand nephews and nieces Alex Bluestone, Ryan Bluestone, Samantha Oleari, Ben Gerstein, the late Evan Gerstein, Nathan Oleari, Jackson Gerstein and Katherine Oleari. 

Ed was born to Polly and Robbie Gerstein in Hyde Park. He raised his family in Northbrook where he was an active member of the Northbrook Civic Foundation. He attended the University of Illinois. Ed was a fun-loving gentleman who was always generous with his time and support. He was passionate about high school sports and could be found at games cheering on his children, nephews and, their friends. He was always an impeccably dressed and avid golfer. Ed was the Wish Fulfillment Chairman for Make a Wish where he devoted many years to easing the suffering of sick and terminally ill children. He worked as a Commercial Real Estate broker where he represented clients in the acquisition of significant properties. Ed also served for many years on the board of the Chicago Federal Defender's Office. His numerous friends and family will miss his humor, support and companionship every day.



 
go to bottom 
  Post Comment

09/09/21 03:54 PM #1    

Randy Lewis

This is very sad news.  Ed was a force, leader, and a genuine friend to many of us.

Rest in peace, and "may bands of angels sing thee to thy rest".

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


09/09/21 05:20 PM #2    

Robert (Dutch) Schultz

The news of Ed's passing is really sad.  We had so much fun during our OPRF years and afterwards. I have fond memories of being with him at parties and at sporting events.  I especially remember he and I going downtown on Christmas Eve (1964 I think)  while the gang went to Mass.  He and I went to see the movie "Goldfinger."  So I just asked Alexa to play the theme song by Susie Bassie.  

Our friendship was worth more than Gold.  Bye Ed!


09/10/21 12:13 PM #3    

Linda Johnson (Geer)

Such a great guy.
Had many laughs with Ed and the crazy group of other pals that "hung out". 
Rest in the arms of those who've gone before you. 
And those of us still hanging on who will fondly remember you. 


09/10/21 05:25 PM #4    

Doug Goodwillie

Six of us got together for dinner at Hemmingway's Bistro last night. When we set this up we were expecting that Ed would join us as he had the last time.Though we certainly missed Ed we had a fine time and many laughs recalling the events of the past 50 plus years as we shared our favorite recollections of our great long time friend. We will miss him terribly.


09/26/21 08:31 PM #5    

Bill Ring

It was only 57 years ago when Ed and I were driving to New Orleans. We were only about an hour out from the start when my car stalled and woildn't start. A state trooper pulled up, asked a lot of questions and phoned my insurance co. for a tow. Then a Grayhound bus drove by and the trooper had us jump in his car so he chased and pulled over the bus. He put us on the bus which drove us back to Champagne and the trooper drove back to my car to wait for the tow. I hope it's many, many years before I join you Ed but when the time comes, let's make sure we spiritually finish that trip to Mardi Gras. R.I.P. Buddy, Bill 


12/15/21 03:12 PM #6    

Dale Steffens

Will really miss Ed. He also went on the meat deliveries with Wick too. Had so many great laughs and memories . I can still hear his voice. He had a ton of extraordinary adventures and stories very well told. Always an optimist despite having some really hard knocks. Fortunately I was able to have lunch with Ed, his wife Judy and son Max before he went in the hospital. Missing him now. Difficult to lose friends of 63 years. I remember meeting him in 8th grade and his legs looked fourteen feet long. 


08/28/22 08:51 AM #7    

Dale Steffens

 The Gerstein family invites all to celebrate Ed on Saturday, September 10,2022 from 4:00-7:00 pm at 

Allen and Joyce Gerstein's Backyard, 1400 Linden, Northbrook, Il. 60062. Please RSVP to Bob Gerstein at rgerstein@marshallip.com with the number of people in your group by September 3. Look forward to seeing you. 


08/29/22 02:57 PM #8    

Bille J Nelson (Robinson)

So wish I could join the good, old gang to honor and reminisce about Ed. 

Our granddaughter is getting married on the 10th so our family will be celebrating Madi and Nick's beginning.

I will be there in spirit.


go to top 
  Post Comment