Marye C. Feldman

Marye C. Feldman (nee Collins) died April 18, 2024 at the age of 88, succumbing to
complications of Dementia. She is survived by her son, Daniel, and daughter-in-law, Jill;
daughter Hilary and son-in-law, Michael Unger; and grandchildren, Rachel and Collin
Feldman.

Marye was born and raised in Bournemouth, England, the second of six children. After
enduring the fear and challenges of WWII, Marye excelled in school, finishing university
at the age of 19. Her life took an unexpected and beautiful turn when she met her
husband, Larry, in 1956, shortly after graduating from London University. Their whirlwind
3-week courtship led to a marriage that lasted 66 years, until Larry’s death in 2022.

Marye immigrated to the United States shortly after the wedding, setting up home with
Larry, who had immigrated from the UK to the US in 1948 and was a student at
Washington University in St. Louis, MO. Over the next several years, Marye worked to
support Larry as he completed his master’s degree in St. Louis and then his doctorate in
Minneapolis, MN. A faculty position at University of Illinois in Chicago brought them to
Illinois, where they purchased the Highland Park home they would live in for the next 47
years.

Marye gave birth to her two children, first Daniel and then, two years later, Hilary. She
spent the late 60’s and early 70’s raising her family and volunteering with The League of
Women Voters and the local PTA. Her work with The League primed her for her return
to the work force in the late 70’s, landing her first at the Academy of General Dentistry
and, eventually, to the American Dental Association where she served as the Head of
the National Council on Dental Care Programs. She led a staff who adored her in a job
that fulfilled her until her retirement in 1997, after the birth of her first grandchild.

In retirement, Marye relished her role as grandmother, often providing day care for her
two grandchildren. She and Larry took several adventurous trips together. At home, she
spent much time in her garden, and she became an avid quilter, producing many
beautiful pieces for friends and family. Walks through the botanic garden with Larry were
near a daily occurrences.

Marye was organized and pragmatic, fair and kind, making her a natural leader. She was a hard
worker and, by example, instilled discipline and a strong work ethic in her children. She
was considerate and caring, always looking out for those around her. She will be greatly
missed.

Per Marye's wishes, there will be no memorial or funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options in Schiller Park, Illinois.