Doloris L. Gebhardt

On June 8th, Doloris Gebhardt graced this earth for the final time at age 91.

Born January 15, 1933 in Pana, IL, Doloris moved to Chicago at age 10, settling in the Andersonville neighborhood where she was raised by her loving parents Edith and Glenn Watson. She would go on to be a fixture and beloved figure in the Andersonville neighborhood being recognized as its citizen of the year in 1997.

At age 19, she married Jim, a banker, who later passed away in 1977. Doloris enjoyed a long career at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, retiring in 1995.

Doloris was a catholic, attending the St. Anthony Padua Chapel, where she tended to the garden. Doloris loved animals, caring for many cats and dogs over her lifetime. She would even carry dog treats in her purse on the off chance she would run into a pup on her daily walk around town. Doloris loved photography and always had her camera on hand to capture the things that brought her happiness. She had a keen eye for art, fashion and held a deep appreciation for Native American culture.

Far and away, her greatest joy in life was being a mother to Mike (Linda) Gebhardt, Mary (John) Fuller, Sue (Jack) Renaghan and step-daughter Linda (Chuck) Sauer. Ma would beam with pride anytime she spoke about her children.

Being a grandmother to Jessie (Hugo) Hoerdeman, Jim Renaghan, Ellen (Brad) Fisler, Erin Gebhardt, Evan Gebhardt, Samantha Sauer, Cate Sauer and great grandmother to Adi Hoerdeman and Greta Hoerdeman was a close second. Grandma Doloris loved taking her grandchildren on adventures all over the city and making priceless memories.

Doloris was truly one of a kind. From the waggle of a finger, to the raising of an eye brow, even her expressions were uniquely hers. She had a positive impact on everyone she met and was always willing to help others in any way she could. She will be remembered as a mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, but also for her beauty, kindness, wit and infectious personality. She was our angel on earth.