Florence Sunnquist Obituary

Florence Sunnquist

Born: February 25, 1911

Died: July 14, 2017

Florence Sunnquist, a long-time Downers Grove resident, died on July 14, 2017 at the Oak Trace Health Center. She attained the age of 106 years 5 months.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eric Sunnquist; a son, Dale Sunnquist; an infant great grandson; one brother, Norval Deach; and two sisters, Marion Morgan and Verne Bassemier.

Left to mourn her passing are her son, Roger (Catherine) Sunnquist of Okawville, IL; 6 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren.

She was born on February 25, 1911 in Chicago. The family moved of Downers Grove in 1917.

Florence attended the Washington and Lincoln Schools. She finished high school at the new Downers Grove High School (now called Downers Grove North High School) which opened in 1928. She played trombone in the high school band.

Soon after high school she joined a girl's band in Chicago. Florence went on the road with the Billy Purl Show. They toured the southern states playing at dances and concerts. Following that experience she joined the Gene Austin Show and traveled with them in the early 30's. Austin was a popular singer and song writer in the 1920's and 1930's. This was a wonderful experience that she remembered fondly. Once back home, she got a job at the Union Tank Car Company in Chicago where she worked as a billing clerk.

In 1936 Florence and Eric Sunnquist, who immigrated from Sweden to Chicago, were married. Florence was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Downers Grove. She was an active member as long as her health permitted. She enjoyed gardening and painting for many years.

Visitation Friday, July 21st 10:00 AM until time of Service 12:00 Noon at Adams-Winterfield & Sullivan Funeral Home, 4343 Main St. (1 blk. So. of Ogden Ave.) Downers Grove. Interment Clarendon Hills Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Downers Grove.

630/968-1000 or www.adamswinterfieldsullivan.com