Kim K. Ebeling, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at the age of 69, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Villa Park, Illinois, to Frank and Thora Rogers, Kim was the third of four siblings and grew up in a close-knit household. She attended St. Alexander’s Catholic School and Willowbrook High School before continuing her education at Elmhurst College. Following her studies, Kim became a teacher before ultimately devoting herself to raising her family. She remained a proud Villa Park resident throughout her life, deeply rooted in the community she loved.
Kim’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Henry “Hank” Ebeling III; her three children, Henry (Pamela) Ebeling IV, Hayley Ebeling, and Ryan (Natalie) Ebeling; and her grandchildren, Conrad, Alexander, and Odette-all who lovingly called her Grandma or Mimi. She is also survived by her father, Frank Rogers Jr.; her siblings, Debra Green (Michael Spilotro), Lynn Rogers, and Frank “Skip” Rogers; as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She is predeceased by her mother, Thora Rogers, and her grandson, Henry Ebeling V.
Kim will be remembered for her radiant beauty, keen intellect, and unwavering optimism. Her positive spirit uplifted everyone around her, while her contagious laugh and uniquely joyful voice filled every room she entered. She had a remarkable gift for turning ordinary gatherings into treasured moments, always keeping her door open to loved ones.
Kim’s love for family activities was evident in everything she did. She and her husband built a cherished routine at their son Hank’s gym, H4 Training, fostering a close-knit community focused on fitness, friendship, and plenty of laughter. She adored the holidays, especially Christmas, delighting in every detail-from meticulously hand-wrapping each present (even a single stick of gum in the stockings) to indulging in her favorite holiday movie, Holiday in Handcuffs.
Though deeply rooted in Villa Park, Kim’s adventurous spirit shone through in her love of travel. She shared her love of Disney with her family through many trips, frequently visited her son Ryan in San Francisco, enjoyed beachside getaways with her daughter Hayley, and savored poolside service at her most beloved resorts.
A lover of life’s simpler moments, Kim savored her black coffee each morning at Dunkin’ Donuts. In the summer, she looked forward to local coffee shop runs with Hank and friends, sitting outdoors to bask in the sunshine. Her sense of humor was a defining part of her character-she laughed wholeheartedly at slapstick comedies such as Schitt’s Creek, and never missed a chance to tune into her favorite HGTV shows.
An avid shopper, Kim delighted in exploring Oak Brook Mall-browsing Nordstrom or enjoying a meal at Antico Posto-and could often be found at Target. She passed her passion for fashion on to her daughter, Hayley, and reveled in accessories-especially handbags, sunglasses, and shoes. Self-care was equally important to Kim; she indulged in manicures and spa days at Mario Tricoci and always savored a perfectly prepared iced tea-with extra ice.
Kim’s caring nature extended to her kitchen, where she frequently baked pineapple upside-down cakes for her father while always preparing warm chocolate chip cookies, fresh Rice Krispie treats, and brownies with powdered sugar. These sweet creations were emblematic of the generous love she so freely shared with others.
In her passing, Kim is in the good company of her mother, Thora; her grandfather, Louis; her mother-in-law, Ceil; her grandson, Henry V; and her beloved Maltese, Lacey-together in everlasting peace.
Services were held at St. Alexander’s Church 300 S Cornell Ave, Villa Park, IL. The family entrusted Steuerle Chapel in Villa Park with the care of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Jackson Chance Foundation, a cause close to the Ebeling family’s hearts, or to a breast cancer organization of your choosing. For info: 630-832-4161.