Leslie Ann Hackman

Our NIU friend group has many wonderful memories with Leslie over the years! Here are just a few!

My first memory of Leslie was her smile and laugh!! She was so fun, and silly and full of joy! Myself and our three other roommates shared a magical year of living together at NIU. We laughed, sang, cried, and shared our hopes and dreams with each other. We especially enjoyed singing hymns in our apartment kitchen, pretending her hair was our hair (wish I could find those pics), and just being generally silly! We kept in touch in our early adult lives after graduation, attending each other´s weddings and celebrating the births of our respective children. But, as many can attest, life got busy for us all and our get together opportunities were limited. However, we could always pick up where we left off and Leslie´s diagnosis brought us all back together again! She demonstrated to us all her continued hope, joy, and perseverance as she bravely fought, and fiercely faced each challenge that came her way! Her joy was solely rooted in her family and she made sure to cherish every opportunity to spend with them! She was a proud mother, wife, sister, daughter, aunt and grandmother! We loved her and I will miss the breakfasts we met up for, the many texts and photos we shared and the joy she always shared with me! I will cherish the gifts she so generously gave, and the memories will live on in my heart!

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.