It is with heavy hearts and sincere sadness that we announce the passing of Pamela Lynn Uhrik (née Schwinghammer), 76, of Wheeling, Illinois, who–after a 25-year battle with Parkinson's Disease–passed away peacefully early in the morning on October 7th, 2025, at Sunrise Senior Living of Prospect Heights.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 10, 1949, Pamela lived a life devoted to those she loved. After graduating from Lourdes High School in Chicago in 1967, Pamela briefly attended the University of Illinois at Chicago-Circle but left her academic pursuits to assist with her mother's failing health.  Always selfless, Pamela lived for others, and this loving and caring nature became her purpose throughout her life. Her devotion to her family–her children and grandchildren in particular–never wavered and will always endure.

Pamela is survived by her husband, Edwin R. Uhrik; her elder son, Edward L. Uhrik, his wife Angela S. Uhrik (née Andris), and their three children: Smara, Helena, and Leo; and her younger son, John S. Uhrik, his wife, Pamela R. Uhrik (née Neustadter), and their two children: Gwendolyn and Walter. In death, Pamela is now reunited with her mother, Beatrice Schwinghammer (née Drupka); her father, Leo Schwinghammer; her sisters, Beatrice "Betty" Schwinghammer and Barbara McAllister (née Schwinghammer); and her daughter and best friend, Sara K. Uhrik.

To anyone who knew her, Pamela was a beacon of love and tenderness. Always putting others before herself, Pamela constantly helped and cared for everyone. Whether it was stocking the pantry with an excessive food supply to ensure that her kids' friends were heartily fed, working elementary school playground duty to oversee the safety of children, or simply just opening her arms to anyone needing a hug, Pamela nurtured the world around her and, subsequently, made everyone find their best selves.

Pamela leaves behind a framework for her family and friends for how to live a life full of compassion and love. All who were graced by her selfless nature will be left with both a void and a wherewithal: she taught us all how to care with tenderness, love with sincerity, and live with integrity.

A celebration of life will be held for Pamela on October 19, 2025, from 11:30am-2:30pm at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling, Illinois (a formal tribute will occur from 11:30-12:30, with an open celebration of life afterwards). All who knew Pamela and/or her loved ones are welcome (casual to business casual attire is acceptable). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you honor Pamela by paying it forward with acts of kindness and love, or by donating to The Michael J. Fox Foundation (to end Parkinson's) or to the Sara Uhrik Memorial Scholarship fund at Wheeling High School.