Gloria J. Shoff, executive director of the Northalsted Area Merchants Association, passed away last week. Shoff, a lifelong Chicagoan who resided on the North Side, was 72.
Northalsted Area Merchants Association is responsible for annual events such as as Northalsted Market Days, Chicago PrideFest and Halsted Tastes Better, among others.
Shoff’s brother, Norman, said that a doctor informed him that Gloria died of either ‘arrhythmia or possibly a blood clot.’
Norman said that Gloria ‘was a very, very strong individual who believed in honesty, truth and satisfaction. She was a traveler when time permitted; she’s been in Europe and the Canary Islands. [Also,] she loved animals and [volunteered] with the Lincoln Park Zoo.’
When asked what he will miss about his sister, Norman replied, ‘Everything I can possibly think of. It’s been hard on me. [Her passing] will take a long time to get over.’
Jeffrey Durbin, owner of The Gourmet Grape and a member of NAMA’s board of directors, said that Gloria Shoff ‘was an asset to our organization and our community; she’s really been our backbone. She’ll be missed dearly. … She was Northalsted Area Merchants Association.’
Gloria Shoff was the devoted daughter of the late Gene and Mildred; dear sister of Norman (Dona) ; and aunt of many nieces and nephews.
A service was held Jan. 24, according to Norman Shoff.
Donations may be made to PAWS, P.O. Box 1037, Lynnwood, Wash., 98046.