Michelle M. Maiers, nee Sommer, of Elmhurst passed away at the age of 46 on June 2, 2023, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. Michelle is well known in Elmhurst’s musical community as a teacher, director and performer and had many music students during her 25+ year career. Proud singer and choral member of Elmhurst’s First Congregational Church of Christ.
Michelle graduated from Millikin University in 1999 with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal performance and then went on to complete her Master of Music degree in 2001 at DePaul University. She was a member of the Elmhurst Choral Union and a featured soloist and has served on the board of the Elmhurst Children’s Theatre for the past four years. She is a cantor with Mary Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in Elmhurst and runs a private voice studio from her home as well as at Addison Trail High School. She performs seasonally with the Festive Singers caroling group and was last seen on stage with StageDoor Fine Arts in Hinsdale. Michelle has performed with Light Opera Works both on stage and as an Assistant Music Director. She has sung with the Chicago City Symphony Opera Orchestra and performed in concerts both in Vienna and Italy. She has also worked behind the scenes as a vocal director for the Oakbrook Academy of Performing Arts and Elmhurst Children’s Theater. She also directed Visitation’s production of Newsies.
Beloved wife of Robert for almost 22 years; loving mother of Meagan and Nicholas; cherished daughter of Donald and Judy; dear sister of Michael (Michelle); daughter-in-law of Robert and Mary Patricia Maiers; sister-in-law of John (Roxanne) Maiers; aunt to Colin and Emma Maiers. Arrangements provided by Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road. Funeral services were held Wednesday, June 7, at First Congregational UCC, 235 South Kenilworth Ave, Elmhurst. Interment Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Elmhurst Children’s Theatre, P.O. Box 64, Elmhurst, 60126. For more information, call 630-832-0018 or visit gibbonsfuneralhome.com
