Remembering Ulla C. Brems and the Community That Supported Her
- ClarkLindsey
- Feb 17, 2018
- 2 min read
Ulla C. Brems, a longtime Urbana resident with deep ties to the University of Illinois and the local community, passed away at age 97. Known for her love of the outdoors, her lifelong friendships, and her thoughtful correspondence, she spent her later years at ClarkLindsey, where she received support from caregivers, hospice staff, and the Meadowbrook Health Center team. Her family has shared their gratitude for the care she received.
What Happened
Ulla C. Brems, originally from Denmark and later a resident of Urbana, died on February 15, 2018. She was the widow of Hans J. Brems, a respected University of Illinois economics professor, and the mother of three daughters living across the United States. Her extended family includes relatives in Denmark and Canada.
Throughout her life, Brems was known for her active spirit—hiking, skiing, biking, and playing tennis well into her 80s. She also maintained close relationships through handwritten letters, keeping decades of correspondence from friends and family.
During her later years, Brems lived in an apartment at ClarkLindsey, where she received ongoing support from caregivers and, during her final illness, from Harbor Light Hospice and the Meadowbrook Health Center nursing team. Her family expressed appreciation for the compassion and attentiveness shown to her.
A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date, with arrangements handled by Renner‑Wikoff Chapel and Crematory in Urbana.
Why This Matters
Stories like Brems’s highlight the importance of community, connection, and compassionate care in later life. Her experience reflects how older adults continue to lead rich, meaningful lives—staying active, nurturing relationships, and contributing to the world around them.
Her family’s acknowledgment of the support she received underscores the role that senior living communities and hospice partners play in helping older adults maintain comfort, dignity, and independence. It also illustrates how families, caregivers, and community organizations work together to support individuals through every stage of aging.
Key Details at a Glance
Individual: Ulla C. Brems, age 97
Background: Born in Denmark; longtime Urbana resident
Family: Three daughters in Massachusetts and California; extended family in Denmark and Canada
Interests: Outdoor activities, tennis, wildflower spotting, letter writing
Connection to UI: Widow of Hans J. Brems, University of Illinois economics professor
Residence: Lived at ClarkLindsey in her later years
Care Support: ClarkLindsey caregivers, Harbor Light Hospice, Meadowbrook Health Center
Arrangements: Renner‑Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana
Broader Context
As communities across the country focus more on aging with purpose and dignity, stories like Brems’s remind us of the value of supportive environments where older adults can continue to pursue their interests and maintain meaningful relationships. ClarkLindsey and similar organizations play a key role in this landscape, offering care that adapts to changing needs while honoring each person’s individuality.
Source Attribution: This post is based on publicly reported information originally covered by The News‑Gazette.
