EGBERT B. GROEN

Egbert B. "Ebbie' Groen, 97, of Northbrook, IL passed away at home Sept. 24, 2012. Born Jan. 26, 1915 in Pekin, IL to Klaas D. and Bertha Groen, he married Naomi Chetlain September 19, 1968. He received a BA degree from Knox College and a JD degree from the University Of Illinois School Of Law. Serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a judge advocate, he was discharged as a Lt. Col. February 19, 1946. He represented the 30th, 45th and 48th districts in the Illinois State Senate from 1953 to 1973, and received numerous awards for his leadership and integrity He founded the Pekin law firm of Groen, Carmichael & McCoy from which he retired in 1974. A championship golfer with many interest, he was widely recognized as an avid gardener and accomplished horticulturist, especially in the propagation of orchids and roses. He was the director of the former First National Bank and Trust Company of Pekin for 40 years, retiring as Board Chairman. Prior to his move from Pekin to Northbrook in 1988, he was an active member of various masonic and fraternal organizations. He was preceded in death by his parents; four siblings; a daughter, Karel J. Bong; his wife of 42 years, Naomi B. Groen; and his first wife, Helen Marie Clary Groen. He is survived by a son, Keith Clary Groen; a step-son, Mark Kellner; a step-daughter, Diane Geimer; two grandsons, Clary H. Groen and Christopher M. Groen, seven step-grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and step-grandchildren and three nieces. He was a member of The Northbrook United Methodist Church and previously a member of, and Sunday school teacher at, The Second Reformed Church in Pekin. Reflecting on his life, he often commented that he had experienced a "wonderful and blessed life", as to which he had "no regrets". Graveside service will be held Thursday, Sept. 27, 2012, 1:30 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery, Skokie, IL. Rev Melissa Earley officiating. Funeral Info 847.675.1990 or www.donnellanfuneral.com