Harriet Gross

Harriet Engel Gross, 86, of Chicago, IL, died December 29, 2022. She was the beloved wife and partner of the late Howard Gross for 56 years. They had a remarkable relationship built on love, shared values and tremendous mutual respect. Harriet will be lovingly remembered by her children; Terryn Gross, Samuel (Melissa) Gross, Melanie Sobel; grandchildren Alexandra and Daniel Gross. She was the sole remaining sibling of sister Dolores Portnoy and brother Ronald Engel.

Harriet was a first generation American, born to Aaron and Anna Engel in New York. She put herself through schooling; received a BA from the University of Michigan, a MA from Northwestern University and a PhD in Sociology from the University of Chicago. Harriet was a pioneer feminist, collaborating with icons such as Betty Friedan and Jane Fonda, and cared deeply about equal rights, social welfare and justice. Harriet was a strong, independent woman; a breast cancer survivor who successfully battled lifelong chronic depression. She was a brilliant, curious woman interested in politics, world events, and all things cultural. After a very successful career teaching and mentoring students as a Sociology professor, publishing many books and publications on Women’s Studies issues, and raising three children, she continued taking courses, such as physics, at the University of Chicago, attended symphonies, plays and lectures, and traveled to different parts of the world. Also after retiring, encouraged by family and friends, Harriet opened a business, C’est Cheesecake, selling her delicious cheesecakes to high-end Chicago restaurants. In addition to her strong intellect and sophistication, Harriet was a warm, kind, compassionate and nurturing soul. She was a volunteer at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, hosted countless holiday dinners, parties and celebrations at her home with her impeccable culinary skills, and was always there to help and support her family and vast group of friends. Harriet diligently cared for her husband through his hospice care and was by his side when he drew his last breath.

The family would like to thank Penka Kostov, Harriet’s dear friend and caretaker, for her exceptional care and friendship to our mother over so many years.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at Northgate Crossing, 200 Hudson Ct, Wheeling, IL 60090 from 4 pm to 7 pm. Memorial donations may be made out to the National Organization for Women, 1100 H St. NW, Ste 300, Washington, DC 20005.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.weinsteinfuneralhomes.com for the Gross family.