Friends and family members of the late Sheila von Wiese-Mack gathered for a concert and memorial for her Saturday at the Evanston Public Library.
A grand piano bearing her name on a plaque was dedicated to von Wiese-Mack’s memory.
Before she became known as the Oak Park woman brutally murdered by her own daughter and her daughter’s boyfriend while vacationing in Bali last August, von Wiese-Mack was known by her friends to be well-connected to the local arts, music, and culture scenes.
“Sheila was a lover of art and of peace so I think it fits the dedication ceremony perfectly,” said David Yonan, who organized Saturday’s ceremony and performed in the concert.
Friends said von Wiese-Mack would often organize musical performances at her home and other locations across the Chicago area.
“She was happy to share her enthusiasm with others,” said friend Joyce Hilkevitch.
The grand piano originally belonged to von Wiese-Mack’s late husband, noted composer James Mack.
While cleaning out his sister’s condominium, Bill Wiese said he and his other sister, Debbi Curran, decided to donate the piano. Yonan helped coordinate the instrument’s donation to the Evanston Public Library.
“It’s a perfect home,” said Bill Wiese. “Jim would love it here, too. He would love it.”
