ANSTISS KRUECK

KRUECK--Anstiss. Anstiss Hammond Krueck, a writer and devoted arts advocate, who dedicated decades of service to cultural and educational institutions in Chicago, died at home on May 7, 2025, at the age of 85, after a long illness. Born in Cambridge, MA, in 1940, Anstiss went to Shady Hill School and then attended Radcliffe College before relocating to Chicago, where she built a dynamic and varied life rooted in creativity, service, and civic engagement. As an avid reader, during the 1970s and 1980s, Anstiss freelanced as a book critic with the Chicago Sun Times and the Chicago Tribune, showcasing her observant intellect and love for the written word. Anstiss was a presence and a force who valued people and ideas and had a remarkable talent for building and maintaining connections. She was energized by community and delighted in discussions of ideas and being a champion for others. Anstiss held a deep affection for dogs, fashion, parties, cookies, playful moments, and laughter. Anstiss was a founding member of Horizons Hospice and The Lincoln Park Conservancy and served on the boards of Poetry Magazine/Foundation, Facets, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Anstiss was elected to the Board of Trustees of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2004 and became a Trustee Emerita in 2021. Her involvement with the museum spanned nearly five decades, including 45 years on the Woman's Board and 44 years on the Committee of Photography and Media. Her commitment and generosity helped shape the museum's collection. In 1960, Anstiss married Skidmore, Owings and Merrill architect William Drake in Cambridge, MA. Following their divorce in 1989, Anstiss married Ronald Krueck in 1992, a founding partner of Krueck & Sexton Architects. She is survived by Ron; her sisters, Florence Phillips and Elizabeth Llewellyn; her daughters, Victoria Drake, Valentine Snell, Ascha Drake; her son Mason Drake; and her six beloved grandchildren. Anstiss will always be remembered for her steadfast commitment to the arts, her philanthropic spirit, and the lasting influence she had on Chicago's cultural landscape. Her legacy will continue through the institutions she supported and the many lives she influenced and loved. A service of remembrance will be held for Anstiss on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 2pm at St. James Cathedral in Chicago, IL.