Jane Lethlean

Jane Lethlean Obituary

My name is Jane Lethlean. I was born on Dec. 10, 1958, to a wonderful mother, Doris Meier Lethlean Quakenbush, and to a father, Robert Lyle Lethlean in Freeport. Later in life, my step-father Howard Quakenbush came into my life and stepped into the role of father. My older brothers Curt, Steve, and Bob Lethlean welcomed me home from the hospital. I grew up in Apple River, graduated from Warren High School, and received my Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. I had the best life surrounded by the love of a fabulous mother, and protective, loving brothers. My life was blessed with the love of my extended family, including my chosen sister, cousin Kathy Meier Lindenberg. On Feb. 9, 2023, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I hit the news head-on that I would be a warrior, beating the dreaded disease. At my side through every treatment and doctor visit was another chosen sister, my beloved friend Leah McNett. Her strength gave me strength. While my life ended after a valiant fight, I wish to convey that I had the best life a woman could have. I had a wonderful career in journalism, working for The Journal-Standard for more than 30 years, ending my career as a Communication Specialist at Highland Community College. The best part of my career was the people I met along the way. I was touched they allowed me to write their stories, and take their pictures. In my career, I won awards from the Associated Press and the Illinois Press Association. The highlight of my career was when I was published with a photo in the last regular issue of Life magazine. That made me proud as this magazine was a favorite of my mother. I was raised to be a good person, and I believe I carried that trait through my life. I was blessed with many friendships, too many to name in this obituary, but you know who you are, and I watch over you from above. I was a huge dog lover. I think that came from my mother, as we always had family dogs that were treated like family. My dogs were Achates, Tanner, Jasper, and Porter Valentino. They all left paw prints on my heart. I was educated in the church at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Warren. I also became a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Freeport. My religious education created a deep spirituality in me that carried me through the rough spots in my life. I had a favorite picture I bought during my illness of Jesus running after a lost lamb. I saw myself in that lamb. I believe Jesus protected me on earth, and guided me to heaven to be with my loved ones. I hope I left this earth creating a memory in the people I was able to touch, the people that also touched me. God Bless you all. 

I am survived by my brothers Curt (Susie) Lethlean of Amherst, WI, and Steve (Helen), my other chosen sister, of Onalaska, WI. My brother Bob (Michelle) Lethlean awaits me in heaven. My beloved nieces and nephews had my heart. They were the children I never had; Amy, Jeremy, Abby, Nic, Tanya, Chad, James Lethlean. I also had two great-nephews, greatniece Deonte and Kayla Lethlean, and Giovanni Lethlean. I cannot also leave this earth without a shoutout to close friends and those who supported me in spirit, Leah, Kim, JoAnn, Gina, Todd, Linda and Joanne. I am also survived by my cousins, Kathy, Linda, Ruthann, Jim, Jason, and Erick.

I am preceeded in death by my parents, Doris Quakenbush, Lyle Lethlean, Howard Quakenbush, my brother Bob and sister-in-law Michelle, and my grandparents, aunts and uncles. I look forward to meeting them in heaven. My beloved dogs, I hope will be there to greet me as well. Know that my life was filled with love. I loved, and I was loved, and to those I leave behind, “When they ask you if you knew me, Remember, that you were a friend of mine." 

Memorial services will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday February, 8, 2025 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church.  A visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. until the time of service.  Following the memorial service there will be a celebration of life from 3:00-6:00 P.M. at the Freeport Club.  A memorial has been established in Jane's memory (Jane Lethlean Memorial Fund 1643 S Demeter Dr. Freeport, Illinois 61032).

.