Shelby Louise (Ewert) Hopkins, 77 of Huntley, died peacefully October 5, 2018 with her daughters and nieces Kim and Michelle by her side.
Shelby was born October 21, 1940 in Elgin, Illinois the daughter of George and Grace Ewert, the youngest of eight children. She married James (Jim) H. Hopkins on September 7, 1963 in Elgin. The couple made their home in Elgin, South Elgin and Union before moving to Belvidere. Following the death of her husband Jim she moved to Huntley to be with family. Shelby worked at various jobs throughout her career but spent several years at Valley Bank in South Elgin. Shelby was the matriarch of her family, she loved the holidays and entertaining, the more the better. She was an amazing cook and baker and will be especially remembered for her famous pies. Her legacy is one of love and devotion not only for her own family but for everyone who knew her. Shelby will be greatly missed by all.
Shelby is survived by her daughters, Susan (Lance) Lamb of Huntley, Pamela (Douglas) Riley of Poplar Grove and Kristi Hopkins of Huntley, her grandchildren, Jennifer (Dan) Thorn, Monica Lamb (Elliott Sohn), Alexander (Kelsey) Hopkins & Heather Riley. Great grandchildren; Elliette and Finley. She is also survived by her brother, Dale (Lucille) Ewert, sister-in-laws, Phyllis Ewert and Evelyn Banwart, and by many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind two lifelong friends, Jeanne Petry and Clara Ewert and her “adopted” daughter, Paulette Diebert.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James and her son, Scott and by her brothers, Donald, Glenn “Olie”, Milton “Jug”, Weldon “Satch”, Melvin “Bin” and sister Nan Jean
A memorial gathering will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the 2pm Celebration of Her Life, on Saturday, October 13th at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. Burial will be at a later date in River Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Dundee. Memorials in her name may be made to Methodist LeBonhuer Hospital Foundation in Germantown, TN
For more information please call 847-515-8772 or online condolences can be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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My Mama Lou meant more to me than words can say. I thank God for her love and the love of her family every day. Being her "adopted" daughter was a true and beautiful blessing. I will miss her so very much and I will treasure and honor her memory always. My prayers and love go out to S.K., Suzie Q and Pammie.
Dear Sue, Pam and Kristi We are sorry to hear about the passing of your mother who was a wonderful wife to your dad, great daughter-in-law to your grandmother, loving to her grand children and obedient into to God. Plus, she was the best pie maker! We will not be able to attend the visitation. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Ken and Pam Huske.
The loss of a cherished loved one is the most devastating experiences a family can face. At times, the loss may seem unbearable. Please know that there are family and friends who care and more importantly Psalm 34:18 tells us that "God is near to those that are broken at heart. He is the God of all comfort. God will comfort you during this difficult time of grief. Our prayers are also with you and your family.