Lisa Renée Towers (née Greenberg)
The fabulous, beautiful and talented Lisa Renée Towers, 44, of Elgin, IL passed away peacefully at home May 23, 2020 surrounded by her loving family after a year-long battle with acute myeloid leukemia.This was Lisa’s second bout with cancer after defeating thyroid cancer at the age of 18.
She is survived by her devoted husband Mark, children Lindsey and Nathan, parents Sherwin Greenberg and Lorraine Bugden, sister Glenda Maki, (Mike), brother Aaron Greenberg, (Marlee Mower), niece and nephews Joseph, Patrick, Ryan, Audrey and Dylan, parents-in-law Anthony and Barbara Zuniga, as well as her many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Lisa grew up in Wheeling, IL. As a child she loved reading with her mom, playing baseball with her dad, and getting into general mischief with her sister, brother and neighborhood friends. She always looked forward to spending summers with her Canadian relatives and was a huge fan of ‘80s music. In high school she sang in the choir, acted in drama club and made the most of her high school years with her close-knit group of friends.
She graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Journalism and worked as an editor for trade magazines where she made many lasting friendships. Armed with her journalistic background, Lisa was a very creative and accurate writer--we know this obit won’t do her writing justice.
She returned to school at Roosevelt University, earning a Master’s Degree in Marketing and shifted from writing to her new passion, content development, for a number of organizations. This move was well-suited for her, as she was dubbed the Grammar Police by her family since she was quick to correct their bad writing and improper grammar. She loved transforming an ordinary written piece into a work of art.
With her sharp wit, casual style and outgoing sense of humor, she was well known to her family and friends for her favor of four-letter words (f*&% cancer), as well as her immense collection of cosmetics (including selling Avon for a brief time to get the employee discount).
She adored her children and loved spending precious time with them, taking them to the beach, water parks, playdates with friends, Cubs games and even the mall (well, Nathan isn’t so fond of the mall).
Lisa was devoted to her husband and fellow Cubs fan, Mark, who remained her rock, support and tireless advocate until the very end.
Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family to be used for her children's education fund.
Everyone is encouraged to leave a message or share a memory of Lisa at www.defiorefuneral.com
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I can’t remember when I first met Lisa, it must have been the first or second grade... she has pretty much just always been a part of my life. She was - without a doubt - the most ridiculous person I have ever known. I loved being in her presence. She was wicked smart, a great writer, and above all - a loving mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend. And she was so. darn. funny. Hanging out around Tahoe Village, the party town park, baseball games, road trips across central Illinois and my first trip to NY and the East coast, making mix tapes, song parodies, creating our own sandwich-making choreography to the Macarena... just being goofy kids. We carried that goofiness all the way into adulthood. And despite the belly-laughs Lisa could generate, you could also rely on her for deep, meaningful, thoughtful conversations and to offer advice. You could always be yourself around Lisa and that was wonderful. I’m beyond grateful that I got to be a part of her life. To her parents, Mark, Nathan, Lindsey, Glenda and Aaron - thank you for sharing Lisa with the rest of us. My thoughts are with you.
Lisa and I were the same age. We grew up in the same neighborhood and were locker neighbors from junior high on. We always got asked if we were related so we decided to just start telling people we were. She was so incredibly witty and kind and will be greatly missed.
Lisa and I attended High School together. She was one of the kindest people, creative, loving, full of positive energy with a hint of sarcasm :) I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Sending much love and comfort to her loved ones.
Lisa, your strength and endurance was amazing. Pretty lady, fly with the angels and know that your children will always know your strength, your kindness and your enormous love for them. We love you so much! Carmen, Phil, Nikki and Alex
So sad to hear of Lisa’s passing. Have fond memories of the short time I knew her in HS. She played my wife in a play we did together and she was wonderful! She will be missed!
I am so glad we got to have lunch recently. It was like no time had passed. Your bright light will shine on, Lisa!!
My favorite memory of Lisa was when my nephew Mark first met her. I remember how excited he was ( and if you know Mark it took a lot to get him excited ) anyway I remember him telling me Unc I met this girl and I think she’s the one. I could tell by the way he was telling me that this girl was someone special! Well needless to say she was the one and they spent almost 14 years together with 2 beautiful children. Right now I’m speaking for myself but I know my wife feels the same way - Lisa was a joy to sit down and have a conversation with. She was so intelligent, kind, polite and caring. I don’t ever remembering being on the receiving end of her 4 letter rants and I wouldn’t care if I was. Our most recent memory of her would be when we visited her at the hospital and she could not believe we drove all the way to see her. Our only regret was not being able to see her more. Rest In Peace sweetheart we miss so much!!
Hugs and prayers to Lisa’s family. My son was in a play with Lisa in HS and my daughter is friends with Glenda. My heart goes out to you all. A life lived not long enough.
Lisa, your friendship meant the world to us. You were always so happy and upbeat. I especially loved our girl talks! You were so very kind and will be greatly missed. Mark, kids and all the family, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending you all our love.
I knew Lisa from drama at Wheeling. I knew her brother better than her Aaron I'm so sorry for you and the entire family's loss. She was so charismatic and I remember laughing when she performed. She is a loss that will be felt by many. Thoughts and prayers for the family and friends.
I was very saddened to learn of Lisa’s passing. Mark is my cousin and considered Lisa a cousin as well. We shared a lot of laughs over the last fourteen years or so even though I didn’t see her often as I live out of state. I’m glad I got to see Lisa last summer and chat with her during her cancer battle. Sending love and prayers to her family and loved ones. She will be missed beyond words.
I was very saddened to learn of Lisa’s passing. Mark is my cousin and considered Lisa a cousin as well. We shared a lot of laughs over the last fourteen years or so even though I didn’t see her often as I live out of state. I’m glad I got to see Lisa last summer and chat with her during her cancer battle. Sending love and prayers to her family and loved ones. She will be missed beyond words.
Lisa and I --and a bit later, her sister Glenda-- worked together just over twenty years ago. She was the editor of a trade magazine and was perfection: resourceful, questioning, and talented. Even more importantly she had a joyful, effervescence. The lights never really came on in the office until she arrived. We stayed in touch throughout the years, a friendship that will always be treasured.
Mark, your uncle and I will remember Lisa for that big beautiful smile she always had on her face. Living out of state we did not get to know her as well as we would have liked to but when we did see her she was always positive and cheerful. Lisa's memory will live on in your two beautiful children and they will always know her because you will keep her memory alive. Love and prayers to all of you. Aunt Pat and Uncle Hector.
Mark, So terribly sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sorry to hear this sad news. Prayers for her.
Mark & Family, My deepest sympathy for you and your family. I’ve been praying for you all since the start, and will continue praying for you all to help overcome your grief. Please stay strong and healthy. So sorry!
I never met Lisa, I work with her husband Mark and I’m Lunch supervisor for her children at Prairie View. My husband also courageously Fought cancer. I know the ups and downs and the devastation it leaves. I’m so very sorry Lisa lost her battle. Sending lots of hugs and prayers to her family and friends.
Lisa had been such a part of my life for so long I can't remember when she was not there. She would spend several after school afternoons over at my place with a few other friends. She was always hilarious, intelligent, and kind. Her presence would keep the rest of us from getting into too much trouble (usually). She was always a person I could think of when I needed a little more joy in my life. As adulthood went on we saw each other less often. Importantly, we were able to see each other a few times over the past year. I can't now imagine the world without Lisa. My thoughts and feelings are with Lisa's family at this time. Much love.
My deepest condolences to Lisa’s family and beautiful kids, I was very saddened to learn of her passing. Since high school only connected virtually with her but she was a positive force and proud and loving mom you could tell! Such a strong smile and caring spirit, praying for her kids and family during this difficult time.
My condolences to you and your family. You will be in my prayers for Gods comfort through this extremely difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Lisa. She was always a joy to be neighbors with.
I was honored to know Lisa for a few short years when we worked together and stayed friends. Always positive and upbeat, even if we were dealing with something unpleasant at work. She was also very honest (amazingly not an impossible combination). It was a gift to have you in my life Lisa. I'm so sorry for your husband's and children's loss. I hope those close to them don't hesitate to reach out to them. I know that kind of outreach (including from Lisa) helped me when my wife suffered heart failure last month. Even if I didn't always respond it still helped to know people cared to try to get in touch. Love you, Lisa.
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Love Jamie
Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate... Lisa is indeed basking in a chocolate sauna, while perusing a list of local Chocolatiers (:~)
My thoughts and prayers are with you all! I did not have the pleasure of meeting Lisa, but I worked with Mark. My continued prayers for comfort Mark!
So sorry for your loss Mark, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Mark and family I am so sorry for your loss. I work with Mark, my prayers go out for you !
Lisa called me “chicken salad”. Aaron and I grew up 9 feet away from age 8-19/ 1987-1998. She would participate in some of our backyard wiffle ball showdowns! I remember her perfect blue Volkswagen. She always had a pleasant demeanor. I remember and miss the whole Greenberg family. Love & prayers Tarun (TY)
I’m so grateful for the friendship I shared with Lisa. When we met, it was as co-workers, but we became fast friends. Lisa (aka Greenspan or GT) was game for anything! When I suggested to her that she would the perfect model for magazine cover I worked on she jumped at the chance. She always reminded me that she was my famous cover model. I witnessed her strong passion to continually find ways to improve herself by seeking out additional educational experiences from seminars to an advanced degree. She was never satisfied with the status quo. We spent many “good times” shopping, going to the salon, meeting up with friends, talking and searching for fun finds at the Kane County flea market. I will miss her smile, bright light that lifted every room she walked into and the “positive vibes” she sent to us all. My heart goes out to Mark, her beautiful children and family.
Mark and Family, My heart is heavy for you and my prayers are with you. Your great love will be greatly missed. May God bless you with beautiful memories and His presence in the days ahead.
It is so very sad to have a child pass away. May God be with you and give you text
I was so very sorry to hear about Lisa’s passing. She and I worked closely together at HFMA, and I will remember that time fondly. She was such a bright light and was so funny! We spent many hours collaborating and laughing together. The world is a little dimmer today without her in it. I will keep you all in my thoughts. Wishing you peace throughout this difficult time. Warm regards, Kathleen Vega
Mark & Family, My deepest sympathy for you and your family.. If there is anything I can do,,,, I'm right across Rt20,,, Just say the word my friend. I am praying for you and the kids
Dear Mark and family, so so very sorry for your loss. I have heard many accounts of your love and devotion for your beautiful wife. You will always be admired for that memory in my heart . Praying God's blessings for you all, Debbie Bus 45
I feel very blessed to have known Lisa. Although we have not seen each other in many years I will always cherish the memories of high school and after. My favorite memory of Lisa is when we traveled to California for a friend's wedding in which Lisa was a bridesmaid. She was supposed to have had her dress made prior to the trip. However she arrived in California with a dress that needed to be finished and fitted. She had two days in California to get this done! Of course the dress was finished in time and she looked fabulous as always. This memory for me, reminds me of how Lisa had a carefree and positive outlook and attitude in all circumstances. She will be very missed.
My favorite memory of Lisa was when my nephew Mark first met her. I remember how excited he was ( and if you know Mark it took a lot to get him excited ) anyway I remember him telling me Unc I met this girl and I think she’s the one. I could tell by the way he was telling me that this girl was someone special! Well needless to say she was the one and they spent almost 14 years together with 2 beautiful children. Right now I’m speaking for myself but I know my wife feels the same way - Lisa was a joy to sit down and have a conversation with. She was so intelligent, kind, polite and caring. I don’t ever remembering being on the receiving end of her 4 letter rants and I wouldn’t care if I was. Our most recent memory of her would be when we visited her at the hospital and she could not believe we drove all the way to see her. Our only regret was not being able to see her more. Rest In Peace sweetheart we miss so much!!
Hugs and prayers to Lisa’s family. My son was in a play with Lisa in HS and my daughter is friends with Glenda. My heart goes out to you all. A life lived not long enough.
Lisa and I worked together at Putman Media. She called me "Hern" a nickname she gave me shortly after we began working together. Little did she know that was already my nickname. :) Lisa was by far one of the most kind person I have ever known. Her heart was full of love and she brought joy to those around her. Her smile would light up the room and her laugh was contagious. Her sarcasm was a gift that never failed to make my laugh. I am so deeply saddened to hear of her passing. My heart goes out to her family.
My mom shared this news with me today and I am so terribly sorry. I have so many wonderful memories of Lisa from when we were kids together in Tahoe. Lisa was always so sweet and kind, and just a truly lovely person. As I have gotten older, I have realized more and more how incredibly lucky we were to grow up with such good neighbors. I remember once when Lisa was a little girl - I think it was Lisa and not Glenda or Aaron - that she managed to lock herself in the bathroom and my dad helped with the rescue operation. : ) My dad, Sonny, was always a huge fan of all of the Greenberg kids - I think he considered Glenda, Lisa and Aaron to be part of our extended family. Sending lots of love and support to all!!!
Mark , Pat and I Are so sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Lisa, I was so sorry to hear of your passing. You were far too young. I enjoyed the time we talked while at Cahners. You made life just a little bit better there. I will think of you often and say a prayer or two for you and your family.
I never met Lisa, But met her brother Aaron, in Salt lake city around. 2001we had many adventures. I'm sorry I never got to meet her. I'm so sorry for your loss . We keep in touch and although we haven't hung out since I left Utah your still my brother and I love you
We met in High School after I transferred to Wheeling. You were close with my girlfriend so we saw each other a lot. You were always a positive person with a great smile, and a very sharp wit. Bit of a smartass, but I loved it. I’m not a cheap laugh, but you never failed to get a smile out of me. We reconnected on social media, but didn’t see much of one another. My heart breaks for your family, your husband and children. Most of all though, I feel sorry for those that will never see that smile or hear that laugh. Those that will never feel the light and beauty of your presence. I mourn for them most of all. I love you kid. Rest In Peace.