Jean Margaret Honan

1930 - 2024

Jean Margaret Honan

October 8, 1930 - September 24, 2024

Jean Margaret Honan, age 93, passed away on September 24, 2024, surrounded by family and in the amazing care of the staff at Zilber Family Hospice in Wauwatosa, WI. Born on October 8, 1930, in Saxondale, Nottinghamshire, England, to Winifred and Cecil Hall, Jean's journey through life was marked by her indomitable spirit. She was a woman of tenacity, perseverance, and independence, embodying the essence of never backing down from a challenge. Her strength as a mother and nurse left an indelible mark on her loved ones.

Jean earned two nursing degrees, one at Leeds General Infirmary in England and one 30 years later at St. Luke's School of Nursing in Racine, Wisconsin.

She began her nursing career in 1952 in Scotland as a midwife where she proudly delivered 39 children. Her career path took her to Canada and ultimately to the United States, where she dedicated herself to elder care in Racine, Wisconsin. During her time in Scotland, she crossed paths with her future husband, John, at a local dance. They went on separate paths for nearly eight years until reuniting in Oakland, California, in 1960 where they were wed. They were married for 57 years until John's passing.

Family was central to Jean's life. She is survived by her children Jennifer Bronenkant (Peter); Michael Honan (Linda); Susan Blaesing (Scott); and David Honan (Stephanie). Jean's (aka "Nana") legacy continues through her seven grandchildren John (Kim), Patrick (Natalie), Shannon (Max), Joseph (Camille), Olivia, Clare, and Sean; and seven great-grandchildren Landon, Elaine, Hollis, Parker, Reagan, Brennan, and Ireland. She is also survived by her brother, Robin Hall (Brenda) of Newark, England, and countless family and friends.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, John Honan, and brother, David Hall (Beryl).

Jean found joy and companionship in singing and ringing bells for nearly twenty-five years as part of St. Timothy's Church chorus and bell choir in The Villages, Florida, while also enjoying bridge, Mahjong, bingo, and art classes at Trinity Woods, where she was a beloved member of the community.

A celebration of Jean's life will be held at Trinity Woods, 9525 W. Burleigh Street in Milwaukee, on October 11, 2024, at 1:00 pm in the Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Woods - A Life Engaged, honoring Jean's commitment to the community she cherished.