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Jean Serra Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Jean Serra
Sponsored by loving daughter, Nancy Kramer.
Nancy Kramer
January 25, 2025
Daughter, Nancy Kramer
January 25, 2025
Twenty Years Without You
Today marks 20 years since Mom left us and as I do every year on this day, I find myself reading through the guestbook and reflecting. So many memories have been shared by friends and family over the years-each one a reminder of how deeply Mom was loved and how richly blessed I am to have been her daughter.
I still remember the moment Mom passed, holding her hand like it was yesterday. In that sacred moment, I knew the blessings of a mother´s heart-a heart full of gentle care, loving kindness, and unending selflessness. Mom met the challenges of life with such grace, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire us all.
Dad is with Mom now, his prayers finally answered after missing her so deeply for 20 years. I can only imagine the two of them dancing together on those streets of gold. Their love story, like the timeless melody of their favorite "September Song," lives on-a beautiful, enduring soundtrack to the legacy of their lives together.
I am so thankful to Jesus for Mom, and for the peace of knowing that He saw fit to bring her into His eternal joy. No more wheelchairs, no more silence-she is fully alive now, more so than ever since her stroke in 2002. That truth brings comfort to my heart.
What Made Mom Special
Mom loved people in a way that was rare and beautiful. Whether it was her high school classmates who voted her "Most Friendly" or finding old friends while on trips even a thousand miles from home, Mom made everyone feel seen and valued. She didn´t wait for others to come to her; she went to them, extending warmth and kindness that left a mark on every life she touched.
Mom loved her family deeply, too. She and Dad shared 51 wonderful years of marriage, doing everything together. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, filling our lives with joy and love. From handmade Christmas stockings to birthday cakes, she created traditions that brought us closer and made life special.
I´ll never forget how Mom was always there, waving goodbye at the window when we left for school and smiling to welcome us home. That simple act felt like sunshine, giving us strength and comfort. Even after we were grown, Mom stood at the door or window, waving goodbye as we left after a visit.
Locust Street was our haven because of Mom-a place to play, grow, and feel safe. Whether defending us, scolding us, or sharing in the fun, she was always there. And when it came to meals, Mom set the bar high. Homemade treats, holiday feasts, and cookies-Jean´s kitchen was a place of warmth and togetherness.
Mom loved gardening, and if we couldn´t find her, we knew to check the garden. As Tom said, "she´d be there, pulling every last weed, ensuring everything was in perfect order." She taught us that hard work and care create beauty, both in the garden and in life.
Mom was a strong, intelligent woman who made her home a sanctuary for the grandkids. Loyal, modest, soft-spoken, and full of common sense, she was a source of strength and stability. Mom was our role model, a traditionalist with practical skills, and a leader in the community through PTA, scouting, and social activities.
Mom was an artist at heart and studied interior design, a passion that brought her so much joy. However, when WWII ended, she selflessly gave up pursuing her career, as the jobs rightfully went to the returning servicemen. She never resented this sacrifice, honoring her brother Wally, who had given the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
Her creativity found other outlets. Mom had a deep love for crafts, sewing, and needlepoint. Whether it was designing beautiful handmade outfits, creating intricate needlepoint projects, or crafting unique treasures, her talent and artistry brought beauty and warmth to everything she touched. I cherish the drawings and watercolors I found in her memorabilia. Even as a senior she was always learning and creating.
Mom and Dad´s creative teamwork came to life when they purchased a lot at 1758 Locust Street in Des Plaines from Grandpa Joe. Mom, with her artistic vision and background in interior design, carefully designed a modern home tailored to their family´s needs. Dad brought her plans to life with his hard work and craftsmanship, building the house himself. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories-a true labor of love that reflected their dedication to one another and to their family.
A Love for Travel
Mom had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for travel. All Dad had to say was "vacation," and she´d be packed and ready to go! Every year, our family embarked on two-week vacations, often camping at destinations ranging from the Ozarks to Florida to Washington, D.C. These trips created some of the most cherished memories of my childhood.
One of my favorite and most memorable trips was our journey to Norway with Mom and her mother, my grandmother Martha Altman. Mom made the trip incredibly special in so many ways. We couldn´t afford a lot of new clothes, so she handmade beautiful outfits for me herself. Before the trip, we even took Norwegian language lessons together, which was both fun and meaningful.
In Norway, we were welcomed by warm and hospitable relatives, and Mom´s charm made everyone fall in love with her. She truly soaked in every moment of the experience, from driving to ensure others could enjoy their Cognac, beer, or rhubarb wine without worry, to helping me pick out special souvenirs-her keen eye for memorabilia made every piece feel meaningful. Even after the trip, Mom stayed in touch with our Norwegian relatives, hosting them during their visits to the U.S. and traveling to meet them in Florida on multiple occasions.
Though our family vacations didn´t take us west, Mom and Dad made up for that after we kids were grown. For their 40th anniversary, they embarked on an unforgettable RV journey all the way to Alaska. Mom secured a spot on the Alaska Ferry, and together they ventured through Anchorage, Denali National Park, and the Yukon, returning through Banff, Canada, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone. As a special gift for their anniversary, Ken and I arranged for them to stay at the iconic Yellowstone Lodge, which added to the magic of their adventure.
As empty nesters, Mom and Dad continued to travel far and wide, exploring Europe, Mexico, and Hawaii. Mom cherished every moment spent reuniting with childhood friends during their travels. Whether visiting Millie and Ray Beers in Padre Island, Texas, or spending time with her kindergarten friend Julie and husband Bob Hollander in Florida, Mom made every trip special. They also shared wonderful memories with friends like Bob and Irene Stinson, Bill and Shirley Turner, and Don and Joann Beers during vacations to Wisconsin, Arizona, and California.
Mom´s love for travel wasn´t just about the destinations; it was about the connections she made along the way, the joy she found in new experiences, and the way she turned every trip into a special memory for those around her.
Carrying On Mom´s Legacy
Not a day goes by that Mom isn´t remembered. Her legacy lives on in the traditions we´ve kept-like the handmade Christmas stockings-and in the lives we try to live, full of love, laughter, and support for one another. Mom would be so proud to know you have another great-granddaughter and 12 great-grandchildren, with 9 of them being girls! I know she´s smiling down on them and holding my heavenly grandchildren-Abel, Angel, Sam, Jesse, and Zion-and my own Angel-in her loving arms until I get there.
Here´s to the memories, Mom. Every day is one day closer to being reunited with you. Until then, I will keep holding onto the love and lessons you gave us.
Love you and miss you! Not a day goes by that I don´t think of you
Nancy Kramer
January 22, 2024
Reading through Mom´s Legacy book as I do every year on this day. Hard to believe it has been 19 years since she passed. Today´s ice storm prevents me from a mausoleum visit, but mom is in my heart and thoughts today as every day. Mom would have celebrated her 95th birthday Dec. 27th. She would have been so excited to know she has another great grandchild on the way! And especially happy with 8 out of the current 11 here being girls! She wanted another granddaughter from me, but she had to settle for 3 wonderful grandsons!! I know she´s taking good care of my heavenly grandchildren Abel, Angel, Sam & Jesse. Here´s to the memories, Mom! Til we meet again! Love, Nan
Nancy Kramer
January 23, 2023
Dear Mom, even though 18 years have passed, you will always be missed. While I am sure you're in a better place, I still miss you every day. There's not a day that goes by when I don't think of you. I know you're in heaven, but I still feel you with me. I read this today and it reminded me of you: "Wherever a beautiful soul has been there is a trail of beautiful memories." I pray my children and grandchildren will think of me as I do of you. I love you... I miss you... Love, Nan
Nancy
January 22, 2022
Nancy
January 22, 2022
A day doesn´t go by when I don´t think of mom. I remember the moment you passed like it was yesterday and I look forward to seeing you in heaven once again
Nancy Kramer
January 26, 2021
Hard to believe 16 years have gone by! Dear Mom, my mind still talks to you, my heart still looks for you, and my soul knows you are at peace with my Lord. Lovingly, Nan
joe Serra
January 26, 2014
Joe Serra
January 26, 2014
It has been 9 years honey since you left us to be with God in heavan, your love and Spirit are always with me , love you sweetheart ...forever
Nancy Kramer
January 27, 2012
January 26, 2012 - 7 years, but not a day goes by that I don't think of Mom and thank the Lord for giving me such a wonderful mother - even moreso now that I am a grandmother myself. Lovingly in Christ, Nancy (Phil. 1:3)
Joe Serra
January 26, 2011
Another year just flew by , 6 years today since your Angel came for you. Your Spirit is always with me with many wonderful memories of our days gone by.
Shirley called today from Tucson , we had a nice chat of the many dinners, camping trips , visits with good friends we shared , it was good to talk to her, especially today. They are doing well, sold their house and moved to the Moorings in Arlington. She misses you a lot , you must have been on her mind also today.
I love and miss you Sweetheart, I can close my eyes and see your smiling face .
Your Joey
Watercolor postcard done by Jean of her daughter Andrea 2002
Nancy Kramer
January 26, 2011
Another year gone by and, as I do every year on this day, I read through the guestbook and remember. So many wonderful memories from friends and family that remind me of how thankful & blessed I am to have had a mother that was so loving and special to so many people. When I was young I thought that my mother’s whole purpose was to be my mom – that is how she made me feel. When I’d leave for school my mom was at the window to smile and wave me on. I don’t think I could have gotten through the day without that – that last glimpse of her motherly face affected me like sunshine. And after we were grown, as we left after a visit, she would always be there at the door or window to wave and smile as we left. You don’t understand what it is to be a mother until you become a mother yourself. Elizabeth Elliot said: “The process of shaping the child … shapes also the mother herself. Reverence for her sacred burden calls her to all that is pure and good, that she may teach primarily by her own humble, daily example.” The memory of my mother will always be a blessing to me. I loved her dearly. Lovingly, Nancy
Joe Serra
December 27, 2010
Merry Christmas and a Happy 82ond Birthday honey, the years are flying by, it seems the older we get the faster they go. I think of you each day with many happy memories of us during the holidays . You always made them so special for us all ....love you sweetheart, your Spirit is always with me , your Joey
Pam Dietz Carrico
July 5, 2010
Joe & Family - I just ran across this obit for Jean today - was looking up some things for mom & dad - we are so sorry for your loss. I know it's been awhile, but I am hopeful that as time passes, you will have just great memories of your times together. I remember many wonderful times with you all. Love to you all - The Les & Lydia Dietz Family
your Joey
December 26, 2009
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Honey. I am at Nancy and Ken's. Spent Christmas Eve and day here. Nancy is recovering from her second knee operation last week and cannot travel for a few weeks. It has been snowing all day so I am snow bound until it starts to clear so I can drive home....We all had a nice family Christmas with Robert Linda and the Boys.... Lucy decided to spend this Christmas with Roy,You, Wally, Gandma & Grandpa in heaven this year.....We all love and miss you Honey and ask for the Lords Blessings.
Joe Serra
September 19, 2009
Another year Hon, Happy 56th Anniversary. I think of you every day and all the days of our youth before and during our marriage. It is a beautiful September day like it was at our wedding . You are always in my heart and thoughts, today and forever. I love and miss you sweetheart,
"Happy Anniversary" Your Joey
Joe Serra
May 9, 2009
Thank you Lord for my Jean, I just have to close my eyes and will see her sweet face with all our pleasant memories of days gone by.
"I Love you Sweetheart" You are always in my heart
Happy Mothers Day, your Joey
Nancy Kramer
December 27, 2008
Mom would have been 80 today! It is with heartfelt thanksgiving that I remember and praise the Lord for my mother - for the devotion and unconditional love that she gave to me and to all of my family....thank you Lord for giving me a loving, caring, wonderful mother with memories to carry me until I am able to walk with her in heaven itself...
Your Mother is always with you.
She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street.
She's the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick and perfume that she wore.
She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well, she's your breath in the air on a cold winter's day.
She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a rainbow, she is Christmas morning.
Your Mother lives inside your laughter.
And she's crystallized in every tear drop.
A mother shows every emotion .......... happiness, sadness, fear, jealousy, love, hate, anger, helplessness, excitement, joy, sorrow..... and all the while, hoping and praying you will only know the good feelings in life.
She's the place you came from, your first home, and she's the map you follow with every step you take.
She's your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy, but nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, not space.......not even death!
I miss Mom, and I am so thankful and blessed to know I will see her in heaven.
Husband Joe
December 17, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS SWEETHEART
Another year has passed
I am now 80 and you will also be 80 on the 27th
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, as I watch the years dwindle down to a precious few when we will be together again in heaven. I love and miss you Hon, I think of you every day and of all our Christmas's past . It is never the same without you.Your Spirit is always with me. You are my strength, I can close my eyes and see your smiling face.
My prayers are with you. May our Lord grant this world peace.
All my love, your Joey
Joe, Tom, Jean & Pepper, Nancy&Yen
December 9, 2008
Joe & Jean Serra
September 19, 2008
Happy 55th Anniversary Honey , I think of you every day and all the wonderful years we had.
Thank you for being the best wife and mother I could ever want. The Lord also blessed me
with my 80th birthday this month, the kids had a great party for me with relatives and close friends at the place where we had our 50th Anniversary.
I love you sweetheart you are always in my heart and thoughts , Joey
Joe Serra
January 26, 2008
Three years ago today, since you're Angel came and took you to heaven honey, sometimes it seems like yesterday and all our years seem like a dream. Never a day goes by when I do not think of you. I am here in Alabama visiting Tom ,Joy, Michael , Tristen and let's not forget Sandy. My comfort is to know that you are also here with us in Spirit. Thank you for all those wonderful years, I love and miss you sweetheart, your Joey
Joe Serra
December 27, 2007
Happy Birthday Honey, 79 today as I watch the years fly by.I visited you yesterday after spending Christmas Eve and Day with Nancy,Ken and the boys. I think of you every day ,with thoughs of our many Happy Birthdays shared with family and good friends .
I missed your Christmas cookies and opening our gifts together . I know you where with us in Spirit and and I can close my eyes and see your smiling face with that proud look when you see our grand children. All my love sweetheart , your Joey
Joe Serra
September 19, 2007
Happy Anniversary Honey, 54 years today. In a way it seems like yesterday as, these years slip by. I miss you a lot and think of all the good years that the Lord gave us . We where fortunate to have a beautiful family with five Grand children and one Great Grand son , that you got to hold in your arms. We all think of you and remember all the wonderful family dinners and holidays that we shared that you loved so much . Remember our “September Song”….till the days dwindle down ….to a precious few…..I love you sweet heart, you are always in my heart, your Joey.
Husband
May 13, 2007
To My Jean , I will think of you a lot today as I do most every day. Thank you for all the many wonderful memories of Mother's day past and always putting us first in your plans for any material or spiritual thought you had in mind to do on this day or any day.
My visit with you yesterday was so peaceful , my mind drifted away with you in my heart , my thoughts of all the years past and fixed to so many joyful times raising our family. How fortunate we where to have you in our life....Happy Mothers Day
I love you Sweetheart,your Spirit is forever with me , your Joey.
Joe Serra
December 14, 2006
Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday Honey, this is our second Christmas apart , I miss you the most when this time of the year comes around. The smell of baking cookies in the kitchen, decorating our tree and home , planning the days with family and friends, shopping together, going to Church . Remember on Christmas eve we would open our personal presents together, you where always like a little kid and got so excited. You where Christmas to me. Also your Birthday December 27th and I would try to make you wait to open your Birthday present, I learned to hide one until the 27th so you would not feel cheated. It all seems like a dream to me now. Until that day we will share it all again. All of our thoughts and prayers are with you and our Lord in Heaven. Please pray for us that we may also enjoy life everlasting together . I love you sweetheart, your Joey
Joe Serra
January 27, 2006
My Jean,
Today it is 1 year since you went to heaven ...Nancy and I visited you yesterday. We are so pround to have had you with us for the many happy years, we all miss you now but know that in heaven there are no wheel chairs and that you are always with us in Spirit, I love you honey and will always miss you until the day we will live again , love and peace, your Joey
Andrea Serra
January 26, 2006
My grandmother was a strong, intelligent woman who always made her home a wonderful place for the grandkids. I miss her, and I try to be as appreciative, humble, and loving as her every day.
Let's all go have a glass of powdered milk.
Love,
Andrea Serra
Robert Altman
January 26, 2006
My Dear Aunt Jean,
I can't believe its been a year. Not a day goes by with out a wonderful memory of you. You brought so much joy to all our lives and especially to mine. I thank God for you everyday.
Love Always,
Robert
January 26, 2006
To all who have added to this Guest Book, thank you. Mom's passing on this day one year ago is eased with all the great memories shared here.
If a rare day passes that Mom is not remembered, it's because we are busy living up to Jean Serra's expectations out of life. To live it to its fullest, be there for one another, continue to build wonderful memories and taking some time to laugh.
We sure miss and love you Mom,
your "sonny boy"
Tom
I Love You Sweetheart
Joe Serra
September 19, 2005
To my Jean,
Happy 52 Anniversary Honey, when this day comes I always remember our September song and the words ,“ For it’s a long long time from May till September, but the days grow shorter when they reach September. “ We all love and miss you so much, and grateful for all the wonderful years that the Lord gave us to share. We are so proud of you. Thanks for always being there when we needed you . I know that you are in heaven and smiling at us all . “ There are no wheel chairs in heaven “ For every time I think of you , your right here in my heart. “ I love you Sweetheart”, your Joey
Joe and Jean a bit later
June 8, 2005
early Jean and Joe
Bob HOLLANDER
June 8, 2005
Bob Hollander
June 8, 2005
"Jean and Joe"----these names still seem to fit right together, as they did for all the decades of their love match. Their mutual respect and fidelity show the way couples should live, play and work together. Love from Bob Hollander and Annie Estlund
Joe Serra
April 1, 2005
My Jean,
How fortunate I was to share 51 years of marriage plus high school, world war 2 and Korean war years with my Jean. We dated before and during my army tour of duty in the 40’s and early 50’s. We married after my discharge on September 19, 1953. The best day of my life, for many great years were to follow.
Jean was a wife and mother that filled our life with happiness. We have two beautiful and healthy children. Nancy and Tom , five grandchildren and one great grandchild. We managed to build our house from the ground up , raise a wonderful family and enjoy the simple things that life has to offer.
Jean was a traditionalist with many practical skills, a hard worker with common sense. She was loyal and trustworthy with a source of strength and stability for me and our family. She was modest and soft spoken and would do anything needed to support her family and close friends. She was a role model for our children and grandchildren. A leader at school for PTA, scouting, and social activities such as Tops.
She was my personal secretary who made our business survive so that the bills were always paid .
Jean made sure our family life was comfortable with home cooked meals , family activities and friends being number one. She was a Housewife and proud of it because we were her most important thing in life.
After her stroke on March 15, 2002 which left completely paralyzed on her right side and lost her ability to read and write. Could not count to 10 or say her ABC’s. Jean was an avid reader and used to write beautiful letters . Now bound to a wheel chair for almost three years. Jean never complained . We managed to still enjoy our life together and coped with her disability . She managed to smile a lot and knew everyone and she made my days enjoyable with her positive out look and was a joy to care for . We had her home for most of her stroke years . My Jean passed away at home on January 26, 2005. She is in heaven now and the Lord Jesus is holding her for me and some day we will be together again for eternity.
“ I love you honey, you are my sweetheart forever…..your Joey ”
Vince Kramer
February 19, 2005
Grandma...I don't know if you can read this but if when you finally left us to go onto peace and serenity...if your death brought at least one person to our Lord and saved them,i know you would have done it and i know you are happy
Tom Serra
February 2, 2005
Mom,
I've thought of so many things to share with everyone about you, although a lifetime of good memories won't happen here. From childhood through adulthood (I think I'm there) Mom made sure things were always OK for me. I really enjoy gardening more and more, this no doubt influenced by our 21 years at home on Locust Street in Des Plaines. If you did not see Mom around, just take a look out in one of the gardens, she would be there pulling every last weed, making sure things were in order. When her Oriental Poppy's would bloom Mom would be sure to call me out to the yard. I would always take a walk in the yard to check for blooms, and make sure these were "recognized". Locust St. was a place for kids to grow up, play, get in trouble, have fun, without worry of all the issues that are apparent tody. Mom was there to defend, scould, and share in the fun. I would walk home every day from grade school in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades for lunch. Tomato soup, crackers, sandwiches and home made treats were always on the ready (and Bozo). We always had pets and enjoyed them together. Mom showed the time and patience that all pet owners should know, and was there to the end for them. She was a tough cookie. Those who were fortunate to be around for holiday meals knew what good food was all about, and cookies??? Oh yeah! In the late 60's long stocking caps were popular, I had to have one. Mom offered to make one, sure Mom! She started off and would ask "how's this?", make it longer Mom please, this stocking hat ended up about 3 feet long. Unfortunately I decided this did not look too cool, and hardly wore it, Mom did not mind however. My wonderful wife came along and I left home, Mom gave me a special ornament marking the year, Joy knows that is the one I must hang on the tree. Still have my handmade XMAS stocking by Mom, as do Joy, Mike, Andrea, Nancy, Kenny, Joe, Vince and??? Mom was such a wonderful grandparent, thank you. I could go on and on.... I would like to be sure to recognize those that offered special care to Mom in her time of need: Joy, Nancy, Dad along with her caregivers, Venus, Brittany and the many others that touched her life. Knowone minded caring for Mom, she was truly the world's best patient. We will miss her, yet be glad for her new life. Love ya, your son, Tom
The Thompsons
February 2, 2005
"May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you; May He send you help from the sanctuary...Save, LORD! May the King answer us when we call." Psalm 20
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Nancy, during this difficult time.
Linda Trilling
February 1, 2005
Dear Nancy and Ken,
Our family would like to send our condolences to you and your family. Although we did not know your mother, we do know how it is to lose a parent. You both are very giving parents. We see that by all the hours we see you both at the baseball fields. I am sure it is just a small way how your mom guided you to be loving parents. Please embrace all the wonderful memories to help you get through the difficult days.
Steve and Linda Trilling
Gunnar Campbell
February 1, 2005
At last, peace.
JoAnn Green
February 1, 2005
My Aunt Jean meant so much to me. As some of you may know, my mother , Marion (Jean's sister) became ill many years ago when I was very small. My Grandma Altman and Aunt Jean were the closest links I had to my mother. They brought love and kindness into my very difficult childhood. I know that one glorious day we will all be together again. God Bless you Uncle Joe, Nancy, Ken, Tom, Joy & kids for being the best family a mom could ask for.
Love to you all, JoAnn
Carol Kovak
January 31, 2005
My fondest memories of my Aunt Jean were childhood summer months, spent with her, and shuttling between hers and Grandma Altman's house. Aunt Jean was role model to me in many ways; her kind words and loving guidance, wonderful and totally dry sense of humor, generous and carrying nature for everyone and life itself, helped to provide me with life’s tools to become a wife, Mom (and now Grandma) and successful career woman. I have so much to be thankful and grateful for, and feel so fortunate that I will be able to remember her and these memories all the days of my life.
Mark Beuligmann
January 31, 2005
We pray that God will give you comfort in the knowledge that you and Jean are both safe in His arms. Those He foreknew, He will justify, and those He has justified, He will glorify. He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Sue Zimberoff (Carlson)
January 31, 2005
Dear Joe, Nan, Tom and families,
I met Nancy in 8th grade, and we've been best friends ever since, along with he rest of the "coneheads": Lynn, Debbi, Tuz (and Janice). Jean was always so kind and loving, a fun mom, and a great cook. (Her cat, Yin, was a very scary cat, though. He'd man the top of the fridge and hiss at me when I came over.) Jean and I used to kid back and forth about her being Norwegian and me being Swedish. When we got older and I was in a band, Jean and Joe always came to my shows at Festa Italiana in Milwaukee. My folks were both gone by the time I was 23, and Joe and Jean were in the audience supporting me like my own folks would have. They were like my surrogate parents. I love you all, and always will. Jean is up there with my Skyler and my parents now, laughing and trading stories, I'm sure. God bless you, Joe, Nan, Tom, and the whole family.
Love, Sue
Nancy Kramer
January 31, 2005
From a loving daughter who knew the blessings of a mother's heart...her gentle care and loving kindness...always giving, never complaining, meeting the challenge of life - to leave a legacy for her children and family. What a blessing she has been to us all. In the midst of our deep sadness, we are thankful to Jesus for Mom and to know that the Lord saw fit to bring Mom into His eternal joy and peace...never again subjected to a wheelchair and unable to speak. Mom is fully alive. Mom is more alive now than she has been able to be since her stroke March 15th of 2002. What made Mom special? First, Mom loved people - it didn't matter who you were, she always made time for you. She was voted "most friendly in High School" and it didn't matter if she was 1000 miles from home, she always ran into someone she knew. She came and got to know you - she didn't wait for you to come to her. Secondly, Mom loved her family. She and Dad were married for 51 years and they did everything together. Mom loved her children and was a devoted grandmother. She was so wonderful and loving. Thank you to all who have expressed their love for Mom at the wake and funeral, calls and messages. I appreciate your expressions of love. It is my hope that you will see and know the God that cares for Mom now, knowing that to be absent from the body is to be home with Christ. God bless you all. 1 John 5:13
Peggy Kramer-Ucella
January 31, 2005
Jean was my brother Ken's Mother-In-Law. I would see Jean at family functions for years afer Ken and Nancy married. I remember her as fun-loving and what you saw was what you got! She was always welcoming to me whenever I was in her home in Des Plaines. I fondly remember the bridal shower she gave at her home for Nancy, with Nancy's friends. What a feast and much fun.
God's speed Jean.
Love,
Peggy
MICHAEL PIMPO
January 31, 2005
MAY GOD COMFORT ALL OF YOU DURING THIS PARTING. KEN, WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY AND YOUR WIFE!
GOD BLESS,
MICHAEL & MICHELE PIMPO
Kenneth Kramer
January 31, 2005
To my beloved Grandmother
ken kramer
January 31, 2005
Jean was my mother in law. One thing I always love about her was that she never told me what to do. Jean was not the stereotypical mother in law. Jean offered advice only when asked. I will always remember her quick wit and direct manner of speaking her mind. Jean did not mince words and inspite of that Jean had hundreds of friends that all loved her very, very much. To my father in law Joe, you know how much my family loves you. As long as God allows we will always be there for you!
Your son in law
Ken
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Read moreWays to honor Jean Serra's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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