Helen E. "Cheez" Kogen

A bit late to the guest book party, but my Aunt Helen would have chuckled, laughed at me and exclaimed "better late than never"! My memories of Aunt Helen include so much warmth, spontaneity, joyfulness and energy. I remember and treasure our visits to the Kogen's home in Evanston...always a special treat with Oliver the dog, black and white tiled floors, TAB cola and Aunt Helen laughing, playing the piano and making merry. Animal print accessories will always remind me of Helen and I still...

I only recently found out about Helen's passing...it's been 2 months! I have known her as a regular customer at the restaurant where I work and from the Michigan Shores Club in Wilmette. I have the fondest memories of she and her husband and friends really just enjoying life. I was always so pleased to see her, she had an incredible memory and always asked about my husband whom she had met only once. Always a lady with a true love of life, she was a role model to me. I will miss her...

I would like to thank all of our family and friends who have extended their warmth and love during this difficult time. All your stories are so treasured, I cannot even describe how comforting it is to have these.

It's been a month since my mother passed from this world and only now can I even imagine putting anything about her into words. There are so many memories. Everyone knows that my mom did things with a flair and signature truly her own. One year, when I was about 8, she...

My Mom, Sally Breit, and I were with Cheez when she walked in the Daisy Chain at National College in Evanston. My Mom by her side and me in my Mom's stomach waiting to greet the world in a few more months. I think even from the womb I could sense Cheez's warm and humanity. While spending my first years in Evanston, I got to know Cheez and Jim and eventually Peter, Ann, and Jenny. Even though I was young, I vividly remember the Jimmy Durante improvs on the piano, her big warm smile, and...

When my sister-in law Helen took her leave of us the day before the horrible events of Sept 11, she chose wisely.She left a happier world than the one in which we now live. As a result of that terrible day, I was unable to be present to say a final farewell to Helen and be at my brother's side. This was very frustrating for me, but considering the personal tragedies so many people have suffered, it
seems ridiculous to complain. It just makes me very sad.
I have known Helen for...

I was saddened to hear of the
passing of Mrs. Kogen. I remember her well from my childhood, as I was a good friend of Jenny's. Mrs.
Kogen would often join us for afternoon chats in her wonderful kitchen. I loved her lively company.
What a welcoming person she always was.
The last time I saw her was at Davis Street Fishmarket. She and Mr. Kogen seemed so happy and content.
My thoughts are with you all
Mary

I did not know Helen very well, but have been friends with her son-in-law Brian and daughter Ann for quite some time. The last time I saw/talked with her was on a gig I was doing in the Chicago area (Brian was also on the gig) a few years back. She was incredibly funny and was humorously intrigued by my "musician slang". We laughed and enjoyed the evening.
I know she will be missed by all who knew her. I hope she is as happy where she is now as she was then. All my sympathy to family...

... A quote from the Memorial card for my mom.

"Grieve not...
Nor speak of me
With tears...
But laugh
And talk of me
As though I were
Beside you.
I loved you so...
'Twas heaven
Here with you"

Thanks to all who have been so loving and supportive of our family during this time. Jen

I think it unusual to know Helen, mother of Ann my sister-in-law, as I have been fortunate to know her. There was rarely a time that my family has been out visit Brian and Ann that we did not also see Helen and Jim. We enjoyed their company every time we saw them.

Helen (and Jim) always embraced us as family. My kids, always loved seeing her and frequently she took them with her for special times and treats. When you were Helen's guest you got the royal treatment. It was put very...