Westlawn/Lakeshore

At the heart of Temple Sholom of Chicago, we understand the profound sorrow and the challenging journey of mourning that follows the loss of a loved one. In these moments of deep vulnerability, we extend our hands with the utmost care and compassion to hold and support you. Our congregation is not just a community but a family that comes together to provide comfort and solace. As you navigate through this difficult passage, know that Temple Sholom is here for you — to listen, to guide, and to walk beside you, every step of the way.

A Testament to Jewish Heritage and Community in Chicago

Nestled at 7801 West Montrose Avenue, Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals embody more than just a final resting place; they serve as a beacon of heritage In response to the evolving needs of the community, Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals have expanded their services to include a mausoleum, built in and memory for Chicago's Jewish community. Westlawn Memorial Park, as it was originally known, emerged from a vision to create a space that wholly embraces Jewish traditions, offering a dignified and respectful tribute to the departed. The inception of this hallowed site marked a pivotal chapter in the city's Jewish history, spearheaded by the visionary leadership of S. H. Harris, Jr. Under his guidance, the park was designed to reflect the community's values, boasting wide roads for two-way traffic and an imposing white marble entrance that greets visitors with solemn grace.

The establishment of Westlawn Memorial Park was driven by a mission to provide a 100% Jewish cemetery, ensuring that every grave receives perpetual care. This commitment resonated deeply with the principle of kevod hamet, honoring the deceased, a cornerstone of Jewish faith that was seamlessly woven into the park's ethos. Harris's leadership saw the park develop rapidly, with all underground improvements completed and paid for in full within the first year, setting a foundation free of any encumbrances. This swift and thoughtful development highlighted the community's unwavering dedication to honoring their ancestors and loved ones in a manner befitting their legacy.

Beyond their roles as a cemetery and funeral service, Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals represent profound commitment to preserving and celebrating Jewish heritage. They stand as a testament to the strength and unity of Chicago's Jewish community, a place where generations come together to remember, mourn, and celebrate life according to Jewish customs and traditions. The acquisition of Westlawn Cemetery by Temple Sholom of Chicago in 1956 further cemented its significance within the Jewish community. This partnership between one of the city's most storied Jewish institutions and the cemetery has been instrumental in fostering a deeper connection to Jewish values and traditions.

In response to the evolving needs of the community, Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals have expanded their services to include a mausoleum, built in two phases in 1998 and 2004, offering a serene and dignified option for above-ground interment. Recognizing the diverse choices of individuals and families, they also provide cremation options for those who have made this choice, ensuring that all members of the Jewish community have access to respectful and meaningful end-of-life services. Furthermore, Westlawn Cemetery embraces the inclusivity of all families, including same-gender couples. This dedication to accommodating the preferences and beliefs of each individual and family underlines Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals' role as a compassionate and inclusive sanctuary, where every Jewish life is celebrated and remembered. Today, Westlawn Cemetery has beautifully maintained grounds, and coupled with the solemn beauty of its structures, it offers solace and peace to visitors, reminding them of the enduring legacy of those who have passed. In every stone, tree, and pathway, the cemetery encapsulates the collective memory of a community bound by faith, history, and the shared experience of generations.

As Westlawn Cemetery and Lakeshore Jewish Funerals look to the future, they remain pivotal institutions in Chicago, embodying the Jewish community's dedication to honor, remember, and celebrate life in accordance with their rich traditions and beliefs. It is more than just a cemetery; it is a sanctuary of heritage, a place where the past is cherished, and the legacy of Jewish Chicagoans is preserved for future generations.