Honoring Keri's Legacy Through Compassion and Community

A Life Defined by Strength and Positivity

Keri was a lifelong source of energy, optimism, and care for those around her. A Decatur native who built a successful career as an event planner in Chicago, she was known for her ability to bring people together and make even the most complex events run seamlessly.

Seven years ago, Keri was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer located where the stomach and esophagus meet. Despite receiving a devastating diagnosis, she faced every challenge with remarkable courage.

"She always had a positive attitude and a smile on her face, even on the worst days," Linda recalled.

Keri continued living her life as fully as possible. She returned to work, participated in activities with her family, and remained focused on the people she loved. Throughout her treatment, she inspired those around her with her strength and gratitude.

Even during her final days in hospice care, Keri remained focused on others.

"There were lots of tears in that hospice room," Hugh said. "But none from Keri."

Instead, she expressed gratitude for her life, her family, and the love that surrounded her.

A Wish to Help Others

During those final conversations, Keri shared a wish with her family.

She wanted her memory to live on by helping others facing similar struggles.

She understood firsthand the emotional, physical, and financial challenges that accompany a cancer diagnosis—not only for patients, but for entire families. She hoped that somehow, her experience could provide comfort and support to others.

That wish became the foundation for the Keri Rowden Coté Memorial Fund.

Established through the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, the fund provides assistance to cancer patients and their families through programs such as wig assistance, transportation support, and other practical resources that help ease the burden of treatment.

One cause especially close to Keri's heart was helping individuals who had lost their hair during treatment access quality wigs.

"She wanted people who were going through this to be able to get wigs that looked nice and helped them feel like themselves," Hugh shared.

A Legacy That Continues to Grow

Today, Keri's legacy reaches far beyond her family.

Through partnerships with local organizations, including cancer care providers, individuals throughout the region are receiving support in her name every month.

For Hugh and Linda, knowing that others are benefiting from the fund brings tremendous comfort.

"It feels really good," Linda said. "I'm sure if Keri were here, she would be thrilled to know that her wish is being carried out."

The impact of Keri's life extends beyond the fund as well.

Former colleagues and industry partners in Chicago continue to honor her memory through an annual "Keri Coté Spirit Award," recognizing individuals who quietly go above and beyond behind the scenes—just as Keri did throughout her career.

More than six years after her passing, her influence continues to inspire generosity, kindness, and service.

Finding Purpose Through Giving

For families who have experienced loss, creating a memorial fund can be a powerful way to transform grief into purpose.

"It lets your loved one live on in everybody's mind and heart," Hugh said. "And it carries their legacy forward."

The Rowdens have found comfort in knowing that Keri's story continues to make a difference for others. Through the Foundation, their gift continues to grow while supporting people in need today and for years to come.

Their story serves as a reminder that generosity can emerge from even the most difficult circumstances.

At the Heart of Giving

As Hugh reflected during the conversation, there is no shortage of negativity in the world. Yet philanthropy offers an opportunity to focus on something positive—to invest in people, strengthen communities, and create hope where it is needed most.

Through the Keri Rowden Coté Memorial Fund, one family's love for their daughter continues to bring comfort, dignity, and support to countless others.

And perhaps that is what lies at the heart of giving: ensuring that the people and values we cherish most continue to make a difference long after we are gone.

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Learn More

Inspired by Hugh and Linda's story? The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation helps individuals, families, and organizations create lasting impact through charitable giving, donor-advised funds, scholarships, memorial funds, endowments, and more.

Learn more about ways to give:
heartofillinois.org/meeting-the-challenge

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