Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Messages for Cyndy and Family
Loyola University
May 25, 2010 5:50 PM Dear Allen and other family members. Late last week Judy Shaffer informed my of Cindy's death. As you may remember, I chaired her dissertation as she completed her doctoral work at Loyola. We shared many of the same professional interests and commitments - what do we need to do differently so that more children realize more success in our schools. Like all of you, my life was enriched by her generous heart, graciousness in the face of challenge, and a humility and kindness that seemed never ending. Paraphrasing the acknowledgment section in her dissertation, Cindy said, "With respect and humility, I wish to borrow the workds of tha honorable gnereral..." as she quoted Lincoln saying, "I was successful because you believed in me." Yes, Cindy, we did believe in you and our lives are richer and better because you gave us that opportunity. David Prasse, Ph.D.
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Lonna Crawford Hickmann
Salem, WI 53168
May 25, 2010 2:44 PM Dear Rick, Shanhaz & Family, I am so sorry to have learned of the passing of your Sister. I wish I would have known earlier as I would have come to the wake. I remember her from a few things with you and also from coming into the Salon that I work at. She was a lovely lady inside and out. Always such a gentle women to talk to and be around. Please except my sincere sympathy. I hope the days to come will bring you comfort knowing she is with our Heavenly Father. Take care, Lonna Crawford Hickmann
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Brittany Hickman
Mundelein, IL
May 24, 2010 11:51 AM Dear Rasaki and Mr. Vandrush; I met your mom, and when I did, she was so down-to-earth and joyful. I can see where you get your sense of humor, and that you are like her in how you always are willing to meet new people. I am sorry for your loss, and will be glad to see you when you come back to 'school' ...
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Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Cyndy
Cyndy was one of the most wonderful and loving people I have ever met- and she will be sorely missed.
I will always remember her happy- happy and smiling and quick to give out a hug and a word of encouragement. One doesn't always meet people like that, let alone get to count them among their friends. I am happy that I was able to spend what little time I could with her at the re-enactments. She always made camp feel like home, and certainly made sure to bring her no-nonsense attitude and sparkling humor every time!
No person becomes what they are without the influence of those around them. Without the love of her heart by her side every day in Al, without the love of her children in Matt and Nick and Jen and Rasaki, without the love of her friends, without the respect of her colleagues she couldn't have become the wonderful woman we knew and enjoyed. Thank you for being an amazing family, and helping to create such a beautiful person.
Karen Henry Hulick and family, Fairfax VA
To my dear sister
It makes me so proud to read these kind wishes, and I have heard so many wonderful stories from so many people that you have embraced and helped throughout your life. Let me say that I am not surprised, for I have been blessed with your love throughout my life.
I miss you, I'll love you forever
Keith
P.S. Save me a place close to you because I know you're next to God
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Lake County News
May 25, 2010
I am so very sorry to hear about Cyndy's passing, I had driven a school bus for Emmons many years ago encountered Cyndy in the system. She treated every child as if she was dealing with family. You knew Cyndy truly loved what she did, dealing with children. Corinne Morley, Antioch
~ corinne morley, antioch, Illinois
May 22, 2010
To Al and Rasaki and the rest of the Vandrush family, I was saddend to learn of Cyndy's sudden passing. I will remember Cyndy for her dedication to children, but especially for her dedication to her family. With heartfelt condolences,
~ Barbara Maddex, Lindenhurst, Illinois
May 20, 2010
A great person is gone now but never forgotten. God Bless her entire family. She touched so many lives, it was an honor to know her thru Emmons School
Chris Sikorski and Family
~ Chris Sikorski, Antioch, Illinois
May 20, 2010
I never knew Cyndy was such an accomplished individual. I only knew her as the loving grandmother of Joel and Jilian and a wonderful mother-in-law to my friend Jay, and of course a great mother and role model for Jen. May the Lord watch over you all in this tough time.
~ Gabe, Waukegan, Illinois
May 20, 2010
Al, I was so sorry to hear about Cynthia, you guy's were great neighbors and she was a great teacher. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorro.
~ John (Jack) Mazzuca, Oxford, Wisconsin
May 20, 2010
Al,
Thoughts and prayers with you and the entire family. Cyndy was a very special principal and woman who we all were proud to associate with. On behalf of the Lake Region Principals' Association we send our condolences.
Emmons School In Memoriam

Dr. Cynthia Vandrush
1949-2010
What the teacher is, is more important than what he teaches. ~Karl Menninger
Dr. Cyndy Vandrush served the students of Emmons School District 33 for twenty years as a classroom teacher and administrator, and retired at the end of the 2008-09 school year. Dr. Vandrush leaves behind a legacy of a love of reading, a passionate advocacy for students with special needs, and an honor and reverence for the history of Emmons School. Dr. Vandrush still had much to offer the future teachers of Lake County and was currently serving as an adjunct professor for several local universities and schools of Education.
Dr. Vandrush passed away suddenly on May 17, 2010. She would have celebrated her 61st birthday on May 27th. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Al, Rasaki, Judy, and the entire Vandrush family.
A memorial wake for Dr. Vandrush will be held on Friday, May 21, from 3:00-9:00pm, 1055 Main Street, Antioch. Dr. Vandrush’s funeral mass will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, May 22, at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church, 557 Lake Street, Antioch.
The Parting Glass - Sung at the Wake
Of all the money that ere I had, I spent it in good company.
And of all the harm that ere I've done, alas was done to none but me.
And all I've done for want of wit, to memory now I cannot recall.
So fill me to the parting glass. Goodnight and joy be with you all.
Of all the comrades that ere I had, they're sorry for my going away,
And of all the sweethearts that ere I had , they wish me one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot that I should rise while you should not,
I will gently rise and I'll softly call, "Goodnight and joy be with you all!"
Oh, if I had money enough to spend and leisure time to sit awhile
There is a fair maid in this town that sorely has my heart beguiled
Her rosey cheeks and ruby lips, she alone has my heart in thrall.
So fill me to the parting glass. Goodnight and joy be with you all.
Rasaki's Poem - Read at the Wake
By Edgar Allen Poe
Because the angels in the Heavens above,
Devoutly singing unto one another,
Can find, amid their burning terms of love,
None so devotional as that of “mother”,
Therefore by that sweet name I long have called you;
Filling my heart of hearts, where God installed you,
In setting my Virginia’s spirit free.
My mother-my own mother, who died early,
Was but the mother of myself; but you
Are mother to the dead I loved so dearly,
Are thus more precious than the one I knew,
By that infinity with which my wife
Was dearer to my soul than its soul-life.
Messages for Cyndy and Family
Steve & Charlene Rutkowski
Springfield, M
May 22, 2010 10:15 AM Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. Sister and brother-in-law of Jim Parrish.
Carolyn Ericson
Wauconda,Illinois
May 21, 2010 6:34 PM My sincere and deepest sympathies to Rasaki and the whole Vandrush family. I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Vandrush, and found her truly a sincere and caring person. Sincerely, Carolyn Ericson
Angel
Jennifer (Thelen) and Pat Barton
Burlington, WI
May 21, 2010 5:20 PM We are thinking of your family at this time of loss. We pray that God brings you peace through your memories. Our 2 year old, Grace, blows bubbles up to Grandpa Jack in heaven and I will be sure to have her blow up a few for your Mom/Grandma/Wife...
Angel
Chris and Tim McGurn
Waukegan, IL
May 21, 2010 4:40 PM We are so sorry for your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers daily. Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
Angel
Sue Bowers
Libertyville, IL
May 21, 2010 3:38 PM Dear Rasaki, Al and family: As your Teacher in the SEDOL Transition Program at the Seymour Site in Grayslake, I was privileged to interact with your mother (Cyndy) in many settings, from meetings to casual conversations; each time, I valued how she was a tireless advocate for anyone with special needs; how she was such a clear communicator in meetings; and how, no matter what the setting, she always made me laugh :). I will miss her.
Angel
Matt Hammer
Lake Zurich, IL
May 21, 2010 3:23 PM Rasaki, Mr. Vandrush; I want to tell you how cool it was that your mom (Cyndy) would always come into our chat room at One Geek Radio and was always there to request a song!! I also liked how she always helped you with your CLC work. She was a great lady and I will miss her.
Brian Bradley and Linda Marin
Oshkosh, WI
May 21, 2010 12:49 PM Al and Family, Words cannot express our shock at the learning of Cyndy's passing. No words can make your loss more bearable---only time and all the fond memories. Thinking good thoughts for Cyndy and you and family. Sincerely, Brian Bradley and Linda Marin Bradley Co. of the Fox - Baldwin's Reg't bradley@bradleycompanyofthefox.com
Eileen Matluck
Buffalo Grove, Illinois
May 20, 2010 9:55 PM Dear Rasaki and Family, I am thinking of all of you at this most difficult time. Cyndy was a very special mom, wife, educator, etc. amd will truly be missed by all of us!
Angel
Michele (Skrypt) Torkilsen
Lake Villa, IL
May 20, 2010 8:25 PM Dear Jenny & the Vandrush Family, I am so saddened to hear about your mom's passing. She was such an inspirational person and you all must be so proud of not only her amazing accomplishments but ALL the lives she had touched in all the years she taught in and around Antioch. There are so many art projects I remember from the Grass Lake School days that I now do with my children. Needless to say she was very inspirational to me as I still, to this day love art. May the memories of her legacy comfort you all in your time of sorrow. My deepest sympathies, Michele (Skrypt) Torkilsen & Family
Flower
Sheila Hannigan
Colorado
May 20, 2010 2:17 PM Cindy was a wonderful teacher to all of us Emmons kids, she will always be remembered!! My blessings are with the family she was a wonderful women.
Messages for Cyndy and Family
bgoetzelman@comcast.net
May 20, 2010 8:57 AM Dear Al & Family-- We are so sorry for your loss. We remember Cynthia well as a Scout Mom--her energy and dedication were boundless. All of you will be in our prayers.
Latin Cross
Jene' Appling
Lakemoor,IL
May 20, 2010 6:58 AM My prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. Nothing can ease your pain;but I want you to know I'm here for you!
Angel
Debbie Thelen
Antioch, IL
May 19, 2010 9:52 PM Al & Family, My deepest sympathies to each of you on the sudden death of Cyndy. I had the honor and privilege to work with Cyndy through St. Peter Parish, and I learned so many life lessons from her. She was a very special lady, and I will miss seeing her. We recently re-connected, and had hoped to get together very soon to visit and catch up. May God grant you each peace and comfort in knowing that she is now in His arms. Be Blessed...Debbie Thelen
Flower
Heather Borden Arroyo
Lakemoor, IL
May 19, 2010 8:21 PM Dear Rasaki, Al, and family; As a 'Coach' in SEDOL's Transition Program at the Seymour Site in Grayslake, I wish to offer the most wonderful words regarding all the ways Cyndy touched my life. From comparing outfits purchased [for a deal!] at Coldwater Creek, to discussing the merits of pursuing an education at Northeastern, to her wicked sense of humor and ease-of-being, each conversation, however short or long, always left me aware of her 'specialness'. I will miss her very much.
Crucifix
Jack & Anne Brinckerhoff
antioch Illinois
May 19, 2010 6:25 PM Dear Al, Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family on the loss of Cyndy. She was an accomplished woman who left a significant mark on the education community and on all whose lives she touched. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jack & Anne Brinckerhoff
Angel
Tom & Lana Lazarz
Antioch, Illinois
May 19, 2010 5:07 PM We were deeply saddened by the news of Cynthia's passing. As a parent of children in the Emmon's family ~ she was a true inspiration and role model and always put the "students" first. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family through this most difficult time.
John and Diana Sauter
Paddock Lake, WI
May 19, 2010 4:52 PM Dear Al and Kids, Diana and I want you to know you are in our prayers and thoughts John And Diana Sauter
Hazel Dickfoss
Racine, WI
May 19, 2010 4:41 PM Al, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I remember Cyndy always had a smile for everyone at NWTA events, it has been a pleasure to know her. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Crucifix
Laurie Stahl
Antioch, IL
May 19, 2010 4:20 PM My thoughts and prayers are with your family. She was such a part of the Antioch community and will be greatly missed.
Latin Cross
Cathie & Bob Hackeloer
Antioch, IL
May 19, 2010 2:09 PM Vandrush family we are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences in this difficult time. Your family will be in our prayers. Cindy was such a ray of light in our community. She will be missed!
Crucifix
Betsy Wells
May 19, 2010 1:18 PM May perpetual light shine upon such a wonderful woman. You are all in my thoughts and prayers...
Angel
The Emer Family
Antioch, IL
May 19, 2010 11:19 AM Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this tragic time. Cyndy was an amazing person, mother and wife. We will all miss her very much. Today, we all lost a little piece of our hearts, she was a very special lady. Thank you Cyndy for all you did for us. Peace.
Kelly Asuncion
Schaumburg, ILjavascript:void(0)
May 19, 2010 10:34 AM Rasaki, Your family is in my thoughts & prayers... Kelly
Friday, May 21, 2010
Cyndy and Her Bells - Read at her Wake
Bells. Have you ever heard the music of a hand bell choir?
It's joyous to hear, warming to the heart and mesmerizing to watch. Each bell lifted with care, making a different note and sound…coming together to make beautiful music.
Like the hand bell choir, Cyndy’s family and friends each have a different note, a different sound…each of them contributing to the wonderful music of her life.
As her children were growing up, Cyndy would ring this bell to tell her children it was time to join her at the table for dinner. And one by one they would arrive and another meal would be shared together as they discussed the happenings of their day. I’m sure there were days where the bell rang louder in their ears and days where maybe the sound was faint in hopes of five more minutes of playing outside.
…All the same…the bell rang clear and it brought them home.
While the tone of Cyndy’s bell is what her children and loving husband remember most…there were many bells throughout her life.
The bells she heard the day she married her Al
The bell on the Schwinn Poppy bought Jenny
The bells of St. Peter’s each Sunday as her family went to church
The jingle of bells of each Christmas Season
The doorbell each time family and friends came to visit
The resounding bells of timers announcing time to take turns
The school bells each day as she would greet her eager students
Those bells were always in her life.
Now, we ring this family’s special bell one last time to call and welcome Cyndy home, may it’s sound ring out with all of the notes of her life.