Obituary of Jean Thuringer
It is with profound sadness yet grateful hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Jean Thuringer at the age of 104.
Jean was born in Sheffield, Alabama, to the late Harry and Edna Spielberger. In 1926, her family relocated to Kankakee, IL, where Jean spent her childhood. Jean later attended the University of Illinois and held several secretarial positions in Chicago, including one at the University of Chicago in the Chemistry Department, where she witnessed the groundbreaking first nuclear chain reaction on December 2, 1942.
In 1942, Jean married Louis Thuringer, and together, they built a life filled with love and joy, raising their three children in the community of Homewood, IL. In 1986, Jean and Lou moved to Tucson, AZ, where they enjoyed many happy retirement years together. In 2003, Jean moved to The Timbers of Shorewood in Shorewood, IL, where she was a cherished resident for over 20 years.
Jean was an avid reader and was particularly fond of author Nora Roberts. She also delighted in solving crossword puzzles and was a passionate bridge player and Chicago Cubs fan. Jean enjoyed volunteering at the Cancer Research Resale Shop at the University of Chicago.
If you had the great fortune of knowing Jean, she would always have a smile and a positive attitude. She loved hosting company and would not let anyone leave hungry. As a proud centenarian, Jean frequently shared her advice for living a long, healthy life: stay active, don’t work too hard, and have a little luck.
Jean is survived by her two sons, David (Rivka) Shai and Joel (Candis) Thuringer; and her six grandchildren, Rebecca Berger, Heidi (Mark) Manoguerra, Rachel Horcher, Erica (Jack) Foley, Robin Thuringer, and Natalie Shai. Jean’s legacy also continues through her seven great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Louis Thuringer; her beloved daughter, Carol Berger; and her siblings, Marda Brown and Charles Spielberger.
Visitation and a celebration of Jean’s remarkable life will be held Wednesday, June 26, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at 11:30 a.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black (at Essington) Rd., Joliet. Interment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.
In lieu of flowers, donations to cancer research in Jean’s name would be appreciated.
For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.
