Genevieve V. Kiefer

Genevieve V. Kiefer

Genevieve V. Kiefer, age 86, passed away on August 4, 2025, after a life-long journey with a chronic lung illness. Up until the end Genevieve maintained her gratitude for her long life, love of family, and expressed appreciation for the wonderful and varied experiences she had.

She was born in Rochelle, Illinois, in 1939, to William and Ethel Voss, and due to her health needs she spent her formative years in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, returning home to Ashton and Rochelle, Illinois, as often as possible. Genevieve attended Scottsdale High School before receiving a Bachelor's degree for education from Arizona State University.

Genevieve was a loving mother of Craig (Lisa) Kiefer, Derek (Patricia) Kiefer, and Carol Ann Aebi; Cherished grandmother of Camden, Evelyn, Tiffany, Stephany, Charisse, and Chance; Dear sister of Carol (late James) Fuller, Barbara (late Kenneth) Heal, and Bruce (Mary) Voss; Aunt, cousin, and friend to many who will never forget the love she brought to their lives; Formerly married to the late Gerald Kiefer, and shared time with her lovelorn friend, the late Larry Dirrim, whom with she had two children.

Genevieve spent her professional years guiding her community’s youth as a school teacher for DuPage District 45 for more than 30 years, culminating in recognition for Teacher of the Year before retiring. Genevieve made a difference with a steady, positive kindness that induced the same qualities in the children she taught and everyone who had the benefit of her acquaintance.

In her free time, Genevieve enjoyed gardening, obsessing not only about her own garden but often about everyone else's gardens. She was a walking encyclopedia of gardening knowledge and never shied away from engaging anyone with her thoughts on what should be planted when and where. She enjoyed sporting events and rarely missed watching and cheering on her favorite teams and athletes. Genevieve was avid about genealogy and spent untold hours piecing together hers and others family trees. She had a deep love for her family history but her joy in life was becoming a grandmother, being an aunt, knowing her cousins, which further continued her belief in family over everything. She will be missed by many.

In honor of Genevieve, there will be two Life Celebrations held; a private family gathering and celebration, and a graveside remembrance and celebration where she will be laid to rest at Ashton Cemetery. Both will be scheduled at a later date and family and friends will be notified of the dates and locations.

If desired, donations in her name may be made to Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, formerly Children's Memorial Hospital, www.luriechildrens.org.