The woman credited for creating the famous Beehive hairstyle back in the 1960s, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2016 at age 98.

Margaret Vinci Heldt of Elmhurst, IL, was active with her professional association, Cosmetologists Chicago, for almost 80 years. She recently attended America’s Beauty Show in Chicago, to present the Margaret Vinci Heldt Creativity in Hairdressing Scholarship, and enjoyed every minute of the event, laughing and flirting with many of her dear friends.

Van Heldt designed the world's first beehive hair style that debuted in 1960 on the pages of MODERN SALON—formerly known as MODERN BEAUTY SHOP magazine

A natural and talented competitor, Ms. Heldt won the National Coiffure Championship in 1954 and served as educator and mentor to scores of Chicago area hairstylists during her lifelong career, including such well-known creative stylists as Mario Tricoci, John Amico and Marty Rizzo.

“Margaret was a member and inspiration to Cosmetologists Chicago since 1938,” said Paul Dykstra, CEO, America’s Beauty Show by Cosmetologists Chicago. “We dedicated our 2010 America’s Beauty Show to Margaret—a hair stylist, fashion innovator, salon owner, educator, champion, member and dear, dear friend to many. We will continue to honor her for her love and devotion to her association, her profession and everyone who knew her.”

Throughout her career as a hairstylist, as owner of the successful Margaret Vinci Coiffures on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue and even in retirement, Margaret Vinci Heldt was beloved by all who knew her and continued to work diligently to promote and advance the profession of cosmetology.

Cosmetologists Chicago extends sincere sympathy to Margaret’s extended and devoted family. Visitation will be held from 3:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2016 at Ahlgrim Funeral Home, 567 Spring Rd., Elmhurst. Funeral mass to be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at Visitation Parish on York Road, Elmhurst. Luncheon to follow at Stimac’s, 4950 Butterfield Rd., Hillside, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Margaret’s honor to The Margaret Vinci Heldt Creativity in Hairdressing Scholarship, in care of Cosmetologists Chicago, 440 S. LaSalle St., Suite 2325, Chicago, IL 60625.