The Rev. Dr. Herbert J. Hedstrom of Elgin died peacefully in his home on December 27, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 17, 1940 in Chicago to Newell and Eleanor Hedstrom. Herbert graduated from North Park Academy in 1958, attended North Park College for two years, received a BA from Earlham College in 1962, an MA from Duke University, and an MDiv from Yale Divinity School in 1966, followed some years later by a DMin from McCormick Theological Seminary. Rev. Hedstrom was ordained in the Evangelical Covenant Church of America in 1968. He served churches in Chicago, Glenview, and Elgin. He was active on boards and committees for his denomination. For several years he served as parliamentarian or moderator for the Annual Meeting of the ECC. He was a staunch advocate for inclusivity and for the marginalized and homeless. Herbert was an active member of the Kiwanis Clubs of Glenview and Elgin, volunteered for Food for Greater Elgin, sang in college and church choirs, supported the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music on the Fox. After his retirement he re-joined North Park Covenant Church of Chicago, the church where he grew up. He was beloved by many, known as a kind, gentle, forgiving man, with a strong sense of integrity and good humor. In 1964 Herbert married Louise Ann Westberg of Chicago. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years; the couple’s three children, Elizabeth E. Hedstrom (Scott Ward) of Takoma Park, MD, Mark H. Brooks Hedstrom (Darlene L. Brooks Hedstrom) of Attleboro Falls, MA, and Matthew S. Hedstrom (Sarah K. Mullen) of Charlottesville, VA; four grandchildren, Caroline Ward, Catherine Ward, Henry Ward, and Silas Brooks Hedstrom; brother Thomas Hedstrom (Jean Hedstrom); numerous in-laws and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Nancy Hedstrom Nelson (John) of Chapel Hill, NC, two brothers-in-law and two nephews. Peace to his memory. He is greatly missed. A memorial service is planned for Saturday February 26, 2022 at 11:00 am at North Park Covenant Church of Chicago. It will also be live streamed at live.npcovenant.org. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to North Park Covenant Church of Chicago, the Kiwanis Club of Elgin, the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, or Food for Greater Elgin. Final arrangements are in the care of Laird Funeral Home, PC, of Elgin. For information call 847-741-8800 or www.lairdfamilyfuneralservices.com