Tuesday, June 1, 2010

End of an era

Undoubtedly, this news has reached many Calumet environmentalists through other venues, but in case you are a curious visitor to our blog, Marian Byrnes, founder of the Task Force, passed away on Thursday, May 20th at the age of 84.  A brief obituary that captures the key elements of Marian's life was posted by Tribune reporter Duaa Eldeib.  There is one factual error in the article: she was preceded in death by three of her sons David, Kevin, and Brian and has three surviving grandchildren.  Her fourth son, Alan, is quoted in the article.  Marian will be deeply missed, and in my mind the best way to honor her life is to carry on her vision of a healthy and vibrant South Side Chicago.

A memorial mass has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 13th from 6-8 PM at Our Lady Gate of Heaven, 2338 East 99th Street, Chicago, IL 60617.  You may check back here for updated information and a reminder as we approach the service.

Those who are interested in making a donation in memory of Marian may choose from one of the following:

Southeast Environmental Task Force
In memroy of Marian Byrnes
13300 S. Baltimore Ave.
Chicago, IL 60633-1425

Circle Pines Center
In memory of Marian Byrnes
8650 Mullen Road
Delton, MI 49046

The Human Society of the United States
In memory of Marian Byrnes
Department MEMIT9
2100 L St. NW
Washington, DC 20037