Jean Mandernack

Racine- Jean C. (nee Minnis) Mandernack, 98, fell asleep in the arms of the Lord Saturday evening, April 2, 2011 at Woodstock Health and Rehabilitation Center in Kenosha. Jean was born June 15, 1912, at the family home in Salem, the youngest daughter of Leslie A. and Annie (nee Clark) Minnis. Over the years, the family resided in Salem, Burlington and Whitewater. She was a graduate of Burlington High School, and attended Whitewater State Teachers College. While in high school, Jean met her future husband, George M. Mandernack. They were married June 10, 1932, and took up residence in Racine, where Jean became a homemaker, enjoying gardening, bird-watching and being a mother. As members of Grange Avenue Methodist Church of Racine, the family became regular attendees and volunteers. Jean began teaching kindergarten-age Sunday School in 1947 and continued doing so for over thirty years. She also became a United Methodist Certified Lab School Teacher/Trainer, sharing her expertise with children to help others learn to teach Sunday School. In the late 1950's she began working at the Racine Family Service day-care center, first as a volunteer, then a substitute, and finally helping to provide full-time care for children of working parents. She continued doing this for over ten years. More recently, Jean continued her activities, as she was able, with Christ Church, United Methodist of Racine. After she and George sold their home of 49 years, they resided at the Imperial Apartments, where she became known for being a good friend to other residents. In 2008, she moved to Home Harbor Assisted Living, and continued to be a loving presence to all she met. In January, after a fall, she needed more care and moved to Woodstock Health Center. Jean is survived by her two daughters, Lesly A. Kovac and Carol M. Bartlett, both of Round Lake, IL; three grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; nephews, nieces and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George; and all four of her sisters. A Memorial Service celebrating Jean's life will be held Thursday, April 7, 2011, at 2 p.m. at Christ Church, United Methodist, 5109 Washington Avenue, Racine. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Christ Church, United Methodist, Elementary Christian Education program. The Wilson Funeral Home, 1212 Lathrop Ave 634-3361 www.wilsonfuneralhomeracine.com

Jean Mandernack

June 15, 1912 - April 2, 2011