Helen Helfgott (nee Schorow) was a great Grandmother (Bubbie) to me and beloved wife to my Zadie (Grandfather) I have many fond memories of Helen and miss her dearly. | home
Husband Lester Schlosberg Sister Dorothy Urman (nee Schorow) Grandson Jeremy Schlosberg
 

Helen Helfgott, nee Schorow, age 86, March 21. Survived by beloved husband, Lester Schlosberg; loving daughters, Miriam (Matt Stafford), Diane (Ken Carretta); granddaughters, Pia and Rachel; sister, Dorothy Urman; step sons, Ronald and Leo Schlosberg. Dedicated teacher of thirty-two years. Helped found Lorraine Hansberry Child-Parent Center. By choice taught in poverty area public schools. Advocate for children and better schools. First community representative of Hayt Local School Council. Volunteer at the American Civil Liberties Union and Field Museum. Memorial service Sunday, April 10, 2 p.m., at the Selfhelp Home, 908 W. Argyle. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association ., or to the charity of your choice.
Published in Chicago Tribune on March 27, 2011
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/chicagotribune/obituary.aspx?n=helen-helfgott&pid=149734726
 Remembering Helen In my life with Helen, she had two very memorable attributes. Now, I am not saying these were all that I, or anyone, should remember of her. Speaking only for myself, these will remain vivid in my memory for a long time.

First off, she was an unusually intense listener. As you spoke, she was very focused on what you were saying, almost as if there was nothing else left in the room but your words, or in the world. By the simple act of listening, she was very affirming to me, and I am sure she did this for many of you here. Listening seems simple, but it remains rare.

Secondly, she processed what she heard and then she would ask questions. Sometimes the questions were probing; certainly they often were not what most "polite" people were likely to voice. But they were fine, very real, very genuine questions. Questions to which she was eager for an answer. There were not questions where she already had some answer of your in mind.

The result of all this was that in Helen's presence you stood a good chance of having an extraordinary conversation. We all engage in many conversations in our life; few are memorable. Helen was surely the spark to more memorable conversations than anyone else I have ever known. And I have always been grateful to her for showing me such possibilities.

By - Leo Schlosberg

Zadie,

I saw the news about Helen right after sending my letter from the road. I'm so sorry. Helen was such an amazing woman and I have such fond, fond memories, most especially of the apartment on Wolcott. You guys really were like a home away from home to me and I loved Helen as much or more than anyone I share DNA with.

Sending you love and strength, your grandson,

-Ari

g Sister