Fundraiser Launched For Mom Who Died Saving Son In River

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — A fundraiser has been launched to help support the family of a 31-year-old Hinsdale mother who died Sunday after entering the Des Plaines River to help her son.

Angelina “Angie” Khalimendik was with her family near Independence Grove Forest Preserve Sunday evening when her son, Johnny, got into trouble in the water, according to a message from friends and coworkers organizing the fundraiser.

“Without a second thought, Angie went in after him,” the fundraiser organizers wrote.

Khalimendik successfully helped her son reach safety before becoming submerged herself, according to the Lake County Coroner's Office. A family member and bystanders pulled her from the water and began assisting her before first responders arrived.

• Coroner IDs Woman, 31, Who Drowned After Rescuing Son From River: Authorities

First responders were called to the river at about 7 p.m. Sunday for a water rescue. Khalimendik was found unconscious and not breathing and was taken to Advocate Condell Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

An autopsy conducted Monday determined that her death was consistent with drowning, according to the coroner's office. The incident remains under investigation by Lake County Forest Preserve Police and the Lake County Coroner's Office.

The fundraiser describes Khalimendik as a beloved coworker, friend and mother of three elementary-aged children.

“Anyone who knew Angie knew someone kind, wonderful, hardworking, and deeply selfless,” organizers wrote.

The family is now facing funeral and burial expenses as well as the long-term financial needs of Khalimendik's children.

Funds raised will go toward funeral and burial costs, according to the fundraiser. After those expenses are covered, organizers said remaining funds will be placed in a trust for the sole benefit of Khalimendik's three children and their long-term future.

“Angie died the way Angie lived, putting the people Angie loved first,” the organizers wrote.

Community members are being asked to contribute to the fundraiser or share it with others who knew Khalimendik and her family.

Those wishing to donate can do so on the GoFundMe website.