Funeral Details

How much weI enjoyed visiting with Jean on our all too few visits to family in Chicagoland. Lois joins me in sending our deepest sympathy to those closest to Jean. May she rest in peace.

Lyle Sonnenschein

Sending much sympathy and big hugs to Jim and Bob, whom I still think of as the "big boys," remembering the years my family lived in Chicago, when every Thanksgiving we all piled in our VW and headed to your house, a place Jean kept filled with love and grace--as well as a giant turkey and enough gravy for everyone. I still remember her standing at the bottom of the stairs when I'd come sliding down, looking bemused, as if she could *just* remember being a little girl herself. Many years later, I was fortunate enough to be visiting Chicago one December, and Scott's family took me along on their annual tour of the downtown lights and holiday store windows, so my last vision of Jean is of her standing beside me as we looked up at the giant Christmas tree and over a tiny holiday village with a miniature train chugging through. We had our arms hooked together and were feeling blessed, I think, to have a chance to enjoy each other's company as grown-ups. Though it may seem odd to remember her in conjunction with Christmas, when we lived in Illinois, Christmas and Hanukkah decorations complemented each other, as if our families celebrated difference as well as similarity and understood that the midwinter festivals were all about love and light. I will always hold Jean in my heart and in that light.

Dana Sonnenschein

When I think of dear Jean, there are her welcoming hugs, delicious food and family stories inviting me into her heart and letting me know every step of the way I was a part of it all. Jean's gift of inclusion began when I was a wide eyed little one reflecting in her glistening eyes, an awkward teen warmed by her sweet appled-cheeks, set at ease by her laugh although she made sure I understood she took me seriously, which felt so important at that age. Again, as a young woman visiting with my husband hoping for approval and finding something more, what Jean did better than anyone I have met to this day; Mark was now part of it all. It was no surprise to watch Jeanie's eyes lock with my son Blake's the way hers had once flashed with mine at that young age, surprising maybe that love and magic were visible. I am forever grateful to Jean and will be honoring her by sharing her gift. (2nd Cousin)

Kristin Sonnenschein