Prairie State Wire

Shorewood, IL - Jeanne Ann Engstrom, 86, of Shorewood, formerly of Elwood and Mokena, passed away on July 31, 2025, in New Lenox, IL, surrounded by her loved ones. Jeanne is survived by her son Richard Arthur Engstrom and son-in-law Kevin Koopman, cherished grandchildren Seth David and Kori Lynn Koopman, and sisters-in-law Nancy and Judith, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard Arnold Engstrom, parents Arthur and Georgina Rupp, and brother-in-law Gordon Engstrom.

Jeanne's educational journey began at The Chicago Teacher's College and Illinois State Normal University, fostering her lifelong dedication to learning and teaching. She started as a teacher's aide at Mokena Elementary School and later transitioned to working as a school bus driver. Jeanne served as a secretary at Channel 38, "Winning Chicagoland for Christ," before finding her passion in customer service at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Her commitment to excellence was evident throughout her professional career.

In her personal life, Jeanne was creative and spirited. A passionate quilter and a member of the Heritage Quilters Guild in Lockport, she expressed her artistry through her beautiful quilts. Her strong faith led her to be an active member of the Elwood Community Presbyterian Church. Jeanne's love for reading, politics, and history reflected her intellectual curiosity and love of knowledge. Her wisdom, love, and dedication will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Visitation and a service for Jeanne will be held at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home on August 6, 2025, with Pastor Mike Engle officiating. The interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home.

To honor Jeanne's memory, contributions may be made to the family or by planting a tree in her name.

As her family and friends gather to celebrate her life, they will treasure the legacy of love, creativity, and wisdom Jeanne shared with all who knew her.

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