Vera Wilkinson

Vera Mary Wilkinson (née Rochow)
June 4, 1943 - April 2, 2025
Vera Mary Wilkinson (née Rochow) passed away peacefully at the age of 81 in her beloved hometown of Chicago on April 2, 2025, with her devoted daughter, Elizabeth Gonzales (née Wilkinson), by her side. After courageously battling metastatic breast cancer since October 2024, alongside chronic pain and other longstanding health challenges, Vera's remarkable journey on this earth came to a close, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering dedication to her community.
Born on June 4, 1943, on Chicago's South Side, Vera was a true daughter of the Windy City. She spent most of her life in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood before relocating to the North Side in her later years. Throughout her life, Vera embodied the spirit of selfless caregiving, tending to her parents, Edwin C. Rochow and Elizabeth Rochow (née Lemmer), in their twilight years while simultaneously raising her daughter as a single mother-a testament to her extraordinary strength and nurturing spirit.
Vera's educational journey began at Kozminski Elementary School and continued at St. Thomas the Apostle, where she completed her high school education. She later pursued studies in psychology at Loyola University, though her entrepreneurial spirit would soon lead her down a different path.
Her professional life was marked by a remarkable blend of entrepreneurship and service. At just 13 years old, Vera began working at The Beauty Shop on 55th Street in Hyde Park-a business she would later purchase and operate until 1991. Following the sale of her salon, Vera continued sharing her talents at Montgomery Place, an assisted living community in Hyde Park, where her gentle hands and warm conversation brought comfort to countless residents.
Perhaps Vera's most profound contribution came through her work with adult literacy. As an instructor at the Blue Gargoyle, a non-profit adult literacy center affiliated with the University Church Chicago, she discovered what would become her lifelong calling. With patience and empathy, she helped adult learners navigate the challenges of literacy, opening doors to new opportunities and fostering confidence in those she taught. Through this work, Vera formed deep and enduring friendships that remained an important part of her life until her final days.
Vera's commitment to community service extended beyond her professional endeavors. She served on numerous boards for community organizations, including multiple terms as board president for Greenview Place on Chicago's North Side. Her leadership was characterized by thoughtful decision-making, inclusiveness, and an unwavering focus on improving the lives of others.
Those who knew Vera will remember her for her quick wit, compassionate heart, and the dignified grace with which she faced life's challenges. Her warm smile could brighten even the darkest days, and her wisdom, often delivered with a touch of humor, continues to guide those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Vera is preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Elizabeth Rochow, her son, John Hendricks, and countless friends. She is survived by her daughter Elizabeth Wilkinson Gonzales, daughter-in-law Lydia Wilkinson Gonzales, and granddaughter Esme Flora Gonzales, who will carry forward her legacy of love and service.
A memorial celebration of Vera's life will be held in June, allowing time for family and friends to gather and honor a woman whose impact on her community and loved ones was truly immeasurable. If you would like to attend or share memories, please email forvera2025@gmail.com and further information will be provided.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Arthritis Foundation, Chicago www.arthritis.org or Blue Gargoyle www.bgchicago.org.
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