Elizabeth OConnor

A proud Southern Floridian, from a young age Liz was known for having a big heart. She is survived by her sister Lori and brother Chuck, with whom she shared many great experiences. Growing up she enjoyed gymnastics, cheerleading, singing and dancing, and being near the ocean. She got both her undergrad and Master of Business Administration at the University of Florida - go Gators. She went on a business trip to Chicago where she met her surviving husband, Mike. Their first date was a Cubs game, and little did they know that they would be starting a family and cultivating a second family just a mile away in a few years. Most thought she was crazy for trading Florida winters for Chicago, but she always insisted that winter "weeds out the wimps". Liz loved to travel, stay active, volunteer, go to concerts, and spend time with family and friends. She was an adventurer at heart and always on the move - from hiking to skydiving to rounding up her girlfriends for lunch. Liz lit up every room she walked in. She was the glue to many friendships, an April Fool's master, a beam of positivity. She always kept her doors, arms, and heart open. She lived a full, vibrant life. Her warm smile and presence is missed deeply. "You never know until you ask."