Jeanne Ann Engstrom

Jeanne Ann Engstrom, age 86 of Shorewood, formerly of Elwood and Mokena, passed away on July 31, 2025, in New Lenox, IL, with her loved ones at her side. Survived by her son Richard Arthur (Kim) Engstrom of Rhinelander, son-in-law Kevin (late Susan, 2023) Koopman of New Lenox, cherished grandchildren Seth David and Kori Lynn Koopman, sisters-in-law Nancy and Judith, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her loving husband Richard Arnold Engstrom (2008), parents Arthur and Georgina (nee Bremerman) Rupp, and brother-in-law Gordon Engstrom.
Jeanne's attendance at The Chicago Teacher's College and Illinois State Normal University helped pave the way towards her lifelong commitment to learning and teaching. Her professional journey began with her role as a teacher's aide at Mokena Elementary School before moving on as a school bus driver. She later became the secretary to the chief engineer and production manager of Channel 38, "Winning Chicagoland for Christ." After years of dedicated service across jobs, Jeanne worked and retired as a customer service representative for proprietary software at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Jeanne's personal life was vibrant, dedicated, and full of spirit. She met the love of her life, Richard Arnold Engstrom, in August of 1958, during a birthday party with the facilitation of her cousin and Richard's aunt. Their immediate connection led them to marry the following September. They settled down in Chicago's Roseland neighborhood for 8 years and built on their lives further in Mokena for 32 years, sharing countless memories and achievements. Afterwards, they lived in Elwood for 22 years and retired there together.
As an active member of the Heritage Quilters Guild in Lockport, Jeanne expressed her creativity through her beautiful quilt work, which had been a hobby of hers for many years prior. She held an unwavering faith and was a member of Elwood Community Presbyterian Church. Jeanne's thirst for knowledge extended into her love for reading, and she had a passion for politics and history. Her love and wisdom will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.
Visitation for Jeanne will take place at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home on August 6, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. until the time of Service at 1:00 P.M., also at the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Engle officiating. Procession to Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery for committal service and Interment will immediately follow. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com