Who Was Chel?

                 From Marion – a very good friend:

              Initially as Care Manager for the law firm of Bogutz and Gordon, and then also as a friend, I was a part of Michele Crook’s life for thirteen years until her death on April 3, 2005.  She was a remarkable young woman and actually became a mentor to me and others at the law firm as she made a life for herself after her tragic hospitalization.

              Chel was bright, fun and generous.  A visit with her usually became a lively and happy occasion.  I remember all her fun birthday parties and holiday celebrations, milestones in her life.  Her sense of humor never left her and during the most stressful times surprised and amazed us.  Her enjoyment of friends and family and her delight in the simple moments of daily life helped us to appreciate those relationships and moments as well. She made tough decisions even as her optimism and love of life bubbled over.

               Most of all, Chel was generous, eager to help anyone in need and especially concerned about children and young people. She shopped for disadvantaged families, donated money to assist those in need, and truly cared about what was happening in the lives of others.  Chel’s Hope Foundation is the legacy of a beautiful young woman who showed us all how to live.