Phoebe Van Ham

Phoebe Van Ham, 78, of Wheaton, Illinois, passed away on August 8, 2019 at Seasons Hospice in Naperville, Illinois after a brief battle with lung cancer.


She was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Minnie Van Ham, as well as siblings: Lois (Leroy) Kelderman, Julia Van Ham, and James Van Ham.


Born and raised on a farm in Iowa, in adulthood Phoebe found her home in Wheaton, where she resided for 42 years. During her professional life, Phoebe worked as a social worker and therapeutic life coach, as well as a real estate agent. Her early career focused heavily on social work. After obtaining her Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Jane Addams School of Social Work, she spent many years working in educational settings around Illinois, including schools in Aurora, Glen Ellyn, and West Chicago. In her latter years, she worked closely with seniors suffering from dementia and other memory-related conditions. It brought her great joy to help those in need.


Phoebe was a kind, gentle and warm-hearted person who will be terribly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her infectious laugh, warm hugs, and easy-going spirit will be treasured by her family always. She loved visiting with friends and family, sharing a good meal, laughing with her nieces and nephews, and playing the piano, which she did with great energy.


Survivors include her brother, Lee Van Ham of California; sister, Pauline Sandresky of Oregon; nephews, Trev (Lamaretta) Kelderman, of Illinois, Chad (Mary) Kelderman of Washington, and Lane Van Ham of Arizona; niece, Lauren Van Ham of California; great-nephews, Nate and Sylas; and great-nieces: Sylvie and Edra.


A memorial service is planned for May 2020 in Illinois.