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atherine Holbrook, a top Chicago real estate broker and founding member of The Laricy Team, passed away at 40 on Tuesday. Colleagues and friends remember her as an ambitious agent with a warm personality. After joining The Laricy Team in 2013, Holbrook quickly became an integral part of the team's success, helping it rise to the top of Chicago broker teams over the last decade.

    Holbrook was known for her ability to put clients at ease, earning her repeat business and admiration from industry peers. She was often referred to as "the glue" that brought people together through casual conversations and networking events. Her dedication to excellence in both her career and family inspired many, including @properties' Erin Mandel, who praised Holbrook's strength, balance, and commitment.

    Holbrook's ambition drove the team to expand into a new office in Hinsdale, a western suburb. Despite her passing, Laricy plans to continue pushing the team forward, saying "We're going to go even harder now." The real estate industry has rallied around Holbrook's family, with many brokers and women in the field crediting her as an inspiration.

    A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Holbrook's newborn daughter and funeral expenses. As of Friday, it had raised nearly $290,000 from donations across the industry. Close friend Katy Anastos plans to honor Holbrook's memory by caring for her daughter and sharing stories about her life. "She lived every day to the fullest," Anastos said.