Obituary of Jean V. Giacchino
Jean V. Giacchino passed away in Joliet, on Saturday December 30, 2023, surrounded by her family. Jean was born on March 16, 1932. She was the daughter of the late Carmelo and Rosaria (nee Lamela) Giacchino. Jean was born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Joliet. As the daughter of immigrants from Sicily who valued education, Jean earned her Master’s Degree. As a young student, she attended Washington Junior High School, Joliet Central High School, and Joliet Junior College.
Jean shared her love of learning and literature with numerous students during her 35 years as a Language Arts teacher. She was the first of three generations to teach in Joliet Public Schools District 86. Her connection with students, colleagues, and the community demonstrated the highest level of engagement and commitment.
Jean was incredibly talented and creative. She expressed her passions through her artwork, cooking, and baking. As part of her creativity, Jean designed party favors to commemorate special family occasions. Her favors were an expression of her love. She enjoyed traveling the world, especially when she could create new memories by traveling with family and friends.
Jean found comfort through her faith and prayer. She had a strong devotion to the saints. Jean was devoted to her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was involved in shaping their lives by supporting their interests and expanding their experiences. Fondly known as Mama Jean, by her grandchildren (and all who knew her), Jean welcomed all and loved many.
Jean is survived by her daughter, Nannette (Mike) Ochs ; grandchildren, Katherine Jean, Susan Mary, Meaghan E. Giacchino Junge (Joshua), Michael Joseph Jr., and Daniel Leo (fiancee Katie Krone); great-grandchildren, Leo Junge and Maeve Junge; sisters, Mary Crosetto, Josephine Connor, Rosalie Giacchino Baker. Many nieces and nephews, as well as special friends and caregivers also survive. Jean will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is preceded by her parents; Rosaria and Carmelo Giacchino; and brothers-in-law, John Crosetto, Matthew Connor, and Fred Baker.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jean’s name to Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431 or Joliet Grade Schools Foundation (for Jean Giacchino Memorial Collection), 420 N. Raynor Avenue, Joliet IL 60435 would be appreciated.
Visitation for Jean V. Giacchino will be Sunday, January 7, 2024 from 3-6 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black (at Essington) Rd., Joliet. Funeral services will be the following morning, Monday, January 8, 2024, starting at the funeral home chapel at 9:15 a.m. and processing to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville. For more information, please call 815-741-5500, or to leave an online condolence, visit her Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com
