Obituary
Helen P. Schwartz (née Ontman), 84, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025. Beloved wife and best friend of Allen for 65 wonderful years; loving mother of Stacy (Paul) Kotelov and the late Bradley Schwartz; cherished “Nana” of Ari, Eli, and Noah Kotelov, Gracie and Josh Schwartz, much loved sister of the late Dorothy Greenfield, sister-in-law of Ron and Charlene Schwartz, and of the late Linda and Irwin Kaiser, dear daughter of the late Martin and Sue Ontman. Adored aunt and friend to many. Helen and Allen were set up by a cousin on a blind date—it was truly love at first sight. They married in 1960, began a family, and in 1964 established Banner Day Camp. Helen shined as a true business leader, and through her work at Banner, she positively impacted the lives of countless campers, staff and families and was an inspiration to many. Helen was incredibly strong, intelligent, compassionate, thoughtful and generous to all who knew her. Helen loved to travel, enjoyed golf, tennis, bridge, and most of all—her family. Helen was profoundly connected to Allen, her children and her grandchildren. Helen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Memorial donations in her memory to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, www.breakthrought1d.org, and SCOPE Midwest https://scopeusa.org/banner/. Memorial service, Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM at North Shore Congregation Israel 1185 Sheridan Road, Glencoe, Illinois. For shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847)255-3520.