Obituary
Guest Book
1946
2013
Judith "Judie" Ann Steinhauser, 66, formerly of Springfield passed away on Sunday, February 17, 2013 at Central DuPage Hospital. Judie was born on November 22, 1946 in Eldorado, IL, the daughter of Denzil and Betty (Bratcher) Wilkinson who both preceded her in death. Judie married Jay Steinhauser on August 22, 1970, in Springfield. They shared 30 years of marriage until he preceded her in death in 2000.
Judie was a teacher at the Greenview High School and later worked at the Illinois State Board of Education until she retired in 2010. Her pursuit of knowledge was never ending, and she loved to travel, and loved reading.
Judie is survived by her children; Brad (Elizabeth) Steinhauser, of West Chicago, Grant (Laura) Steinhauser of Denver, CO, Anne (fiancé Jason Perkins) Brewes of Springfield, her grandchildren; Kate Brewes, Evan Steinhauser, Jane Brewes, Madeleine Steinhauser, Aidan Steinhauser, as well as 2 brothers; Gene and Joe Wilkinson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 from 4-7 pm at Bisch & Son Funeral Home, 505 E Allen St. Springfield, IL 62703.
A funeral service will held on Thursday February 21, 2013, at 10 am, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials in Judie's name may be made to the Illinois Literacy Foundation, or to the Les Turner ALS foundation. Please visit the online "Life Remembered Story" at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
February 23, 2013
To the Steinhauser family, my condolences to you guys from the five of us Kienzler kids who had your mom and grandmother in English class@ Greenview High, and we hope that one day there will be a cure for ALS so that this won't happen again.
February 23, 2013
Bill Kienzler
To the Steinhauser family, my condolenses to you guys from the five of us Kienzler kids who had your mom and grandmother in English class@ Greenview High, and we hope that one day there will be a cure for ALS so that this won't happen again.
February 23, 2013
Shelly Schmidt
To Judie's family,
I only got to know Judie the last few months of her life, but I could feel from her what I've read in all these tributes. She would greet me every morning with a smile. She was a teacher forever - I learned about dignity and courage from her. Every time I watch Jeopardy, I will think of the times sitting and watching it with Judie. I am very sorry for your loss.
February 22, 2013
Chris Hunter
I served with Judie on the MacMurray College Alumni Board. I always enjoyed working with her and felt she always brought excellent suggestions to the table. She will be missed. My condolences to her family.
February 22, 2013
Ann and Bill Spitler
I taught with Judie in Greenview in the early 70's and remember her inspiration and support as I came onboard as a new teacher. She and Jay were great friends during that brief time, but friends we will never forget. Thank you for sharing that beautiful picture of Judie. Her lovely smile has not changed.
February 21, 2013
Your memorial service for your mom has her smiling. It was such a reflection of the witty woman we all knew as our friend and colleague. Blessings to all of the family.
Mary Jo Haven
February 21, 2013
John and Sara Wolfsmith
To All of Judie's Family,
What a lovely online tribute to a special lady. It's wonderful to see all those photos and comments from so many who cared about Judie. She touched a lot of lives and her memory will live on through all of those people. Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss and that we cannot be there for her services. Know that you are in our prayers and we send our love. May you take comfort in the wonderful memories you have of your dear Judie. Brad and Elizabeth, we are here if you need anything at all.
Much love to you.
February 21, 2013
D. H.
I worked with Judie for just a few years. She was so kind and understanding when I faced a personal and professional crisis. I don't know what I would have done without her sympathetic, valuable expertise and advice during my serious difficulties. She was an angel when I truly needed one. I know that she is at peace now and deserves the highest rewards in heaven.
February 20, 2013
Dear Brad, Grant and Anne,
Your parents and Ed and I became friends during our MacMurray years. When I pledged Phi Nu, your mother was my "Big Sis" and I still have the engraved pledge paddle she gave me, hanging on my dresser mirror. Your dad and Ed always exchanged the 'crazy' college escapade stories when we would spend time together at our class reunions. I loved Judie's quiet but wry sense of humor and Jay always made us laugh. Both were such good-hearted people and the education world was blessed to have them. At your dad's funeral, as well as afterwards, I admired Judie's calm strength and it was very obvious she was proud of you children. May your precious memories comfort you now and in all the days to come.
Our sincere condolences,
Ed and Ruth Bierman
February 20, 2013
Brent Baird
God Bless, to all the Steinhauser family. Judy will be missed, a very bright and profound person who touched many in education, and throughout her life. Even though I personnally have not been around the family for a while, both of your parents affected my life very positive. Amazing!
February 20, 2013
Adrianne Suits Bailey
I'm so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful and inspiring woman. Like so many of my fellow alumni, she was my favorite teacher at GHS and had a strong influence over what I chose as a major in college. She taught so many of us that we really could accomplish what we wanted with hard work and dedication. Her spirit will live on in all of us who she touched through her teaching over the years.
February 20, 2013
Craig Davis
Mrs. Steinhauser introduced us to Shakespeare, Dostoyevsky and so much more, transporting us far beyond the boundaries of Greenview. She influenced many, many lives.
February 20, 2013
Judie was a dedicated educator and wonderful lady. I had the honor of working with her though ISBE when she taught me all I ever needed to know about the state testing and the Board. Judie knew her subject matter backwards and forwards. She was patient, caring and willing to help even past office hours. During each of the sessions where she helped me try to help the educators of Illinois, she talked about her family until I felt they were friends of mine as well. She loved all of you in the family, loved education, educators and teaching. She will surely be missed by more people than we can count. May she rest in peace and may you, her family, be comforted by wonderful memories of her.
Eydee
February 20, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs Stenihauser was my teacher as well as my brothers and sister and later my daughter. She was loved and respected.
February 20, 2013
Janet McAtee
So sorry for your loss.This teacher and special lady left many memories in Greenview. I always love to hear students say how much they loved a special teacher. My dad received the same wonderfu tributes. Good teachers don't just happen they love to teach the kids. Please feel the love that is sent to you. She had my children as students. Blessings to you remembering your mother.
February 20, 2013
Marilee Kuehl
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Steinhauser kids. I was a student at Greenview and she was always one of my favorite teachers. Sending prayers for peace for all of you.
February 20, 2013
John & Lisa Downey
We both loved the classes she taught at Greenview. Judie's humor was one of her many gifts. God bless you all.
February 20, 2013
Kay Hovey Price
I can only repeat what so many others have said, she was a great teacher and inspiration to all her students. She made learning fun. My deepest sympathies to her family, I hope you find comfort in knowing how much she was loved.
February 20, 2013
Tom Hannon
Judie was a wonderful person, always smiling and friendly. I met her through Jay and I fondly remember their witty bantering with each other. They adored each other! I miss both of them.
February 20, 2013
Jennifer Reid
So sorry for your loss. She was an inspiring teacher who passed her love of reading on to many.
February 20, 2013
Suzie Cundiff
Grant and Family,
I am so sorry to read of your moms passing..My condolences amd prayers for your family in the times to come.
February 19, 2013
Gail Meisner
I always enjoyed visiting with Judie when we both worked at ISBE. I found her to be very positive, even when times were tough for her. She was a strong, sincere, and caring person. Please find solace in your memories of your life together. She will always be with you in your hearts.
February 19, 2013
Scott and Melanie Stanley
We are truly sorry for your loss. Judie was an excellent teacher and a great person. She positively impacted the lives of many, many students. She brought a caring aspect to her classroom and spoke often of Jay and her children, like her students were part of her family.
We have fond memories of the times spent in and out of the classroom with Judie. She brought out the best in her students. She loved to laugh and possessed a charming wit. We will always remember that about her. A book received from her as a graduation gift will serve as a reminder of her humor for years to come.
February 19, 2013
Sharnelle Schmier"Flores"
My deepest sympathies to her family.
She was a wonderful teacher to many.
Thiking of all in this time of loss and all the days ahead.
"class of 1999"
February 19, 2013
E.J. Bill Alan & Ray Kienzler & Janet Kienzler Janssen
One of my first classes was English 2nd period with Mrs.Steinhauser after we had moved to Greenview in 1976 and I had always noticed how friendly this wonderful teacher was. As someone whose mom died of ALS we certainly know the feeling that your family is going through at this time...please accept the sympathies of myself and my brothers and sister...
February 19, 2013
Emily Burton (Price)
What a wonderful teacher and person. Not only did Mrs. Steinhauser inspire us in the classroom but she helped plant the seed in my mind to teach. She will always be remembered for her classes especially Mythology. I will always remember how she would chaperone dances and dance when American Pie or Meatloaf would play. I am sorry for your loss but know that her memory lives on in all of her students.
February 19, 2013
Becky Phillips
Judie was more than just my colleague at ISBE, she was my friend as well and I will miss her dearly. Your family can be proud of what she accomplished as an educator both in the classroom and at the Board. She gave so much to the children of Illinois. She will be missed and remembered by so many.
February 19, 2013
Marsha DeBennette (Dosier)
To the Steinhauser Family,
Please accept my sincere condolences. I'd also like to add similar comments as others: loved her, great teacher when I was a student, good friend/co-worker/carpool buddy when I taught at Greenview. She was quick-witted but compassionate. She had a way of making connections with young and older people alike. In my own classroom today, I often think of her and draw inspiration from my experience with her. Rest in peace, Judie.
February 19, 2013
Bob & Rebecca Moses
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
February 19, 2013
Ken Biggs
Judy was one of my favorite teachers 1970-72. I had the chance to visit with her in Springfield in 2010 with Larry Smith. I have fond memories of her and Jay.
February 19, 2013
Kathy DeCroix
What a beautiful picture to use to remember a beautiful lady! She was always very kind, generous and helpful if you were willing to put in the work. She was one of my favorite teachers and definitely a blast to have as GHS senior class sponsor. Our trip to Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, Canada wouldn't have been the same without her! May God bless her and her family and guide you through these tough times. May happiness fill your hearts in knowing how many lives she so positively impacted!
February 19, 2013
Beth Sohn (Carter)
I'm so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Steinhauser was my favorite teacher at GHS. Amazing lady and will be missed very much. Thoughts and prayers.
February 19, 2013
Lori Hahm
I credit Mrs. Steinhauser for creating my love of reading and learning. She made a huge impact on everyone at Greenview High School. She was loved by everyone and was truly one of "those" special teachers that you never forget! My sympathies to your family.
Lori (Cramer) Hahm
February 19, 2013
Lori Hahm
I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was my favorite teacher. I credit her so much for my love of reading and questioning. She touched so many lives in Greenview in such a positive way! She made such a difference in so many of our lives and will be remembered by this community. Lori Cramer Hahm
February 19, 2013
Alicia Wilson (Cummings)
So many people commenting that she was their favorite teacher at GHS...and for good reason. She was mine as well. My thoughts and sympathies to you all. She will always be remembered.
February 19, 2013
Lynn Rhoades
I first met Judie through working with her husband Jay at ISBE, then she taught a Composition class I took at Lincoln Land, and then I worked with her at ISBE! What a wonderfully delightful, witty person! I enjoyed talking to her, and I will miss her. My sympathy to Brad, Grant and Anne.
February 19, 2013
I wish we had been better at keeping in touch. Every time I think of you it takes me back to my childhood- and I smile. You get to be with Uncle Jay now...... All my love.
February 19, 2013
I have many great memories of English class with Mrs. Steinhauser. Your family is in my prayers.
Suzanne (Wohler) Blackburn, Greenview
February 19, 2013
Toni Gladwell. ( dye)
I am soooo sorry for your loss.... She was one of my favorite teacher's. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family
February 19, 2013
K. McAtee
So sorry to hear. She was one of my favorite teachers at GHS. We had a great time with her on our Senior trip to New Orleans.
February 19, 2013
Tara (Bringman) Selinger
Grant,
I am so sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
February 19, 2013
Jennifer (Baka) Hall
I have thanked heaven many a time for Mrs. Steinhauser. I would not have gotten through 7th grade English class without her. My thoughts and prayers are the family.
February 19, 2013
Krystal (Janssen) Heriford
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. She was a great teacher and was very easy to talk to.
February 19, 2013
Jobi Tabb
To Judie's children:
I remember working with you and your mother when she was ill and preparing to transition to the Chicago area. You were so devoted and she was a joy to work with. Thinking of you.
February 19, 2013
Shy Wagoner
My thoughts & prayers are with her family & friends. What a wonderful person & teacher. She will truely be missed.. never forgotten
February 19, 2013
Erika Blauvelt
Mrs. Steinhauser...one of the GREATEST teachers I ever had! She made learning fun! She had a great calmness and sense of humor. What a gift she was to so many! She will always be remembered.
February 19, 2013
Julianne (Becker) Manuel
So sorry for your loss. She was a great teacher, and showed a love for the subjects that she brought to life for her students.
February 19, 2013
Carol Curto
So Sorry to hear about your mothers passing. She was a sweet and caring lady. I worked for many years with your dad Jay in Food Service at ISBE and then met your mother later when she came to work at ISBE. Prayers to you all during this sad time. Carol Curto
February 19, 2013
I had the privilege to help care for Judie this past year. She was a strong, dignified lady, and even through her illness we shared some laughter, tears, and lots of Jeopardy. Thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.
Vicki Ainsworth
February 19, 2013
Kienzler
February 19, 2013
ron schwabe
Thoughts and prayers with the family at this time, had the good fortune to work with Judie for quite a few years at Greenview, she was an excellent teacher as well as a fine person, she will be missed, never forgotten,
February 19, 2013
Corrie
Mrs. Steinhauser was a wonderful teacher and a beautiful person. I am so sorry for your family's loss.
February 19, 2013
Jessi Trees
Ann, my thoughts are with you be strong my friend.
February 19, 2013
Cassie Eldridge
I will always remember Mrs. Steinhauser as a one of a kind teacher. She really cherished every student and was so great at teaching. She always had a smile on her face and so wise. She had such a huge impact on me and I will always remember her. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. She was a great inspiration to me. We dedicated our 2001 yearbook to her and I still look back at it fondly.
February 19, 2013
I always thought that Mrs. Steinhauser was a wonderful teacher.
Dale Doggett
Greenview, IL
February 19, 2013
Mike
Judie will always be a special person to me. She helped me often at ISBE. Always there with a kind word, always there with a smile. God has the perfect angel.
February 19, 2013
She shared her love of literature with so many...we will all miss her.
Susan Wilson
February 19, 2013
Kara Marcum
I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of a wonderful woman. She was my English teacher all through high school and was by far my very favorite. Sending prayers and condolences to her entire family.
February 19, 2013
Lynn Deverman
Brad, Anne, and Grant
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Judie taught not only me, but my three children while working at Greenview High School. She was my favorite teacher. I loved her sweet demeanor and her compassion for each student to learn.
I also had the privilege of working with Judie at Greenview High School for several years. We shared many talks about our children. She loved you all so much and I know your loss is great. Please know you are in my prayers.
Warm Regards, Lynn (Willis) Deverman
February 19, 2013
Travis Dowell
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
February 19, 2013
Tonya Leverton-Duncan
So sorry to hear this she as a great teacher she will be sadly missed!
February 19, 2013
Robyn Justice (Clemens)
Judy was one of the most loved teachers at GHS. I have very fond memories of times in her classroom. My condolences to the family.
February 18, 2013
Brad ,Anne and Grant .Im so sorry for your loss I have so many good memories of aunt Judie from when we were young and my Dad would take us to Eldorado I know its very hard to loose a parent. and Im so sorry i cant come to her services. You are deeply in my thougts. Please pass this onto Uncle Joe and let him know Im thinking and praying for all of you. ,PAM BRUNS [ Genes daughter]
Showing 1 - 63 of 63 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more