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Jacqueline Benson Schechter

1950 - 2022

BORN

1950

DIED

2022

Jacqueline Schechter Obituary

Jackie passed away peacefully at home after a long illness. Born in Chicago in 1950, the daughter of the late Frank and the late Delores (Kinsella) Benson. The influence of her Irish heritage was ever present.

Jackie was an R.N., a proud graduate of the Michael Reese School of Nursing. Formerly, the Head Nurse of the psychiatric unit at Illinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago, and then was Psychiatric Nursing Supervisor at Highland Park Hospital. Jackie finished her professional career as the nurse at Braeside Elementary School in Highland Park for twenty-two years and as head nurse at Banner Day Camp for twenty summers.

A strong believer in community service, Jackie was elected ward alderwoman and then city clerk of Highwood. She was a school board member in District 111 and helped to facilitate the consolidation of the three school districts of Highland Park and Highwood to form the current school district 112. Jackie also served as an elected official on the Moraine Township Board of Trustees.

An avid reader, she enjoyed a good book, lively conversation with family and friends, hanging out with her dogs, camping, and exploring the forests, beaches and small towns around the Great Lakes.

Jackie will be dearly missed by her loving family; husband and soulmate Steven, son Gabe and his wife Sami, daughter Brenna and her husband Dereck Donahue and their son, Jackie's grandson, Declan.

Her compassion for others, her perspective on life and her sense of humor will be cherished.

A celebration of her life will be held at a future date. In her honor, donate to a charity of your choice.

Jackie's spirit will live on in your good deeds and kindness to others. Hear the song of the birds, feel the wind in the rustle of the trees, see the sunset. Go in Peace.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Mar. 20, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Jacqueline Schechter

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

Larry Gilbert

December 8, 2022

I worked with Jackie at Highland Park Hospital several years ago. She was such an inspiration to me. She was so full of life and vigor. She had the greatest laugh and truly enjoyed our many conversations. My condolences to her family, so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Larry Gilbert

Paul Mayer

March 23, 2022

Steve, my deepest sympathies

Bruce Jacobs

March 22, 2022

Sorry to hear this Steve. My condolences old friend.

Ilana and Marc Platt

March 20, 2022

Dear Steve. Words can´t express how sorry we both are for your loss. There never was a greater love than you two. Her smile and good heart is with us forever. Sending you good vibes.

Margaret Godinez - Gadbois

March 18, 2022

Schechter Family. I pray everyday the God embraces Jackie's soul and may God give you comfort in your time of need. So glad I got to see Jackie at the Vis Reunion a few years back. We hung out together and she was in my 1st wedding in 1970. Always remember that smiling face. She was a beautiful person.

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