Jean Morgenstern Kramer

1930 - 2018

Jean Morgenstern Kramer, 88, of Midland, formerly of Naperville, IL, died Friday night, July 6, 2018, at Candlestone Assisted Living. She was born June 23, 1930 in Evanston, IL, daughter of the late Sherman and Elizabeth (Pope) Barnett. Jean grew up in Glencoe, IL, and graduated from New Trier High School in Winnetka. She attended Grinnell College for two years, then trained as an X-ray technician, before marrying Roger Morgenstern. While Roger served in the Army, the couple lived in Trieste, Italy. After his military service, Roger's career with Swift and Company caused the growing family to move frequently around the US. By nature and necessity, Jean developed cherished friendships with people in many states. In 1975, Jean and Roger settled in Naperville, IL, and were living there when Roger passed away in 1982. In 1984, Jean married Francis Kramer, with whom she also enjoyed many years of marriage, until he passed away in 2011. Jean was a devoted member of Knox Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister. She also enjoyed playing golf, bridge, swimming, biking, and spending time in Maui. She was a diehard fan of the Chicago Cubs and made sure she lived to see them win the World Series. Above all her interests, though, nothing topped her joy in spending time with family. She frequently commented that she was born to be a mother. Jean is survived by her three sons James (Connie) Morgenstern, Steven (Deb) Morgenstern, and Sherman (Kelly Blake) Morgenstern; stepsons Kevin (Laura) Kramer and David (Katherine Wellington) Kramer; grandchildren Elizabeth (Chris) Paul, Kristin (Logan) Lewis, Robert (Courtney) Morgenstern, Daniel (Michelle) Morgenstern, Joseph (Emily) Morgenstern, James Kramer, Sam Kramer, and Mariel Shaw; and 7 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. She is also survived by her sister Betsy McGrew and brother-in-law Neal Berglund. In addition to her parents and two husbands, Jean was preceded in death by her sister Isabelle Berglund, and brothers-in-law Ken McGrew and H. R. Morgenstern. A memorial service will take place in Midland, MI, at 11 am Saturday, August 4, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, 315 West Larkin Street, with Reverend Yum officiating. Jean's family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10 am until the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider her church in Naperville, Knox Presbyterian Church, 1105 Catalpa Lane, Naperville, IL 60540. The family wishes to express special thanks to the caregiving team at Candlestone Assisted Living.