Beatrice Chiswick Obituary

Beatrice May Levinson Chiswick passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 19th, 2011, at her home in Downers Grove, IL, at the age of 93. Bee was born on April 6, 1917 to Morris King Levinson and Rose Ellen Gerber Levinson. She was raised in Winnetka, IL and graduated New Trier High School, Northwestern University (Junior Phi Beta Kappa), and The Julliard School of Music (Master of Arts, 1943). Bee married Haim H. Chiswick in 1942 and was a resident of Downers Grove for more than 51 years. Bee enjoyed a 70-year career as a piano teacher, and she also performed as a solo pianist, in chamber ensembles, and as an accompanist for vocalists and instrumentalists. Her glorious music and sympathetic ear made a difference in the lives of her many students, friends, and family. She was passionate about her gardens and about sharing her homegrown produce and bouquets. Bee was known for her love of life, her love of people, her cheerful smile, and her firm belief in the goodness of humanity. In her daily life, Bee led by example: in treating others with respect, kindness, and tolerance; in daily exercise; in finding and celebrating the beauty and goodness within and around us; in dedication to hard work and its just rewards; in healthy competition; in being a life long learner. Bee was predeceased by her husband (2003). She is survived by her three children, Nancy Chiswick and her husband, Arthur Patterson, of State College, PA, Paul Chiswick of Chandler, AZ, and Lindy Chiswick Camel and her husband, Mark Camel, of Greenwich, CT; and her five grandchildren, Michael Chiswick-Patterson, Emily Chiswick-Patterson; Andrew Chiswick Camel, Edward (Ned) Chiswick Camel, and Matthew Chiswick Camel. Bee's family is deeply grateful for the devoted care she received from her "team" of helpers, neighbors, and friends, all of whom made it possible for her to remain at home. Services will be private. Donations in Bee's memory may be made to the Downers Grove Music Club (Beatrice L. Chiswick Scholarship Fund), P.O. Box 551, Downers Grove, IL 60515 or to The Morton Arboretum (Beatrice L. Chiswick Tribute Fund), Office of Development, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL, 60532. Arrangements are being made by Nancy Chiswick (2443 Hickory Hill Dr., State College, PA 16803) and Lindy C. Camel (47 Beechcroft Road, Greenwich, CT 06830).