15th Annual Evelyn’s Walk

Marquette Bank Honors Friend and Colleague Evelyn Schap with 15th Annual Evelyn’s Walk

For the past 15 years, Marquette Bank employees have gathered in Orland Park for Evelyn’s Walk to honor their friend and colleague, Evelyn Schap, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2010 at age 61 – just one year after retiring from her role as Senior Vice President, Marketing.

“Evelyn was a big personality – she was warm and hospitable, and loved feeding people,” commented Jeff MacDonald, First Vice President, Director of Marketing and Communications. “She used to take us to Greek Fest at her church and out for team lunches, which has become a tradition we continue to uphold.”

Nina Sonsikoski, Assistant Vice President – Marketing, shared that her father, Jose Avila, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer around the same time as Evelyn’s diagnosis, and remembered Evelyn’s compassion and concern. “Even though she was going through her own cancer battle, Evelyn would check in on me, offering care and hope,” Nina recalled.

After her father passed away, Nina and her family attended Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation’s annual DASH for Detection to honor his memory. Spurred on by Rolfe Foundation’s mission to fund early detection research and provide resources and support for patients and families impacted by pancreatic cancer, Nina organized Evelyn’s Walk with the help of Marquette Bank’s award-winning Neighborhood Commitment initiative. For the past 15 years, Evelyn’s Walk has raised an average of $2000 each year, with all proceeds going directly to Rolfe Foundation.

This year’s dog-friendly walk was held on Evelyn’s birthday – July 17th – and was attended by more than 65 employees, friends and family. Following the walk, participants gathered over gyros and Evelyn’s famous triple chocolate cake, a recipe that has been shared throughout the bank.

“We are so thankful for Rolfe Foundation and Marquette Bank’s ongoing support and generous donations on behalf of Evelyn’s Walk,” Jeff remarked. “Being able to celebrate both the 80th anniversary of Marquette Bank and 15th Evelyn’s Walk this year made it even more special.”

“Having everyone come together – including Evelyn’s sister, nieces, nephews, and their children – makes it feel like she’s here with us,” Nina added. “The walk is so important to us because it allows us to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer and honor Evelyn.”

Note: To learn more about hosting your own third-party event to benefit Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, please contact Rolfe at info@rolfefoundation.org.