Jean Foss

Jean L. Foss, 96, of Machesney Park was called home Monday, October 30, 2017, in River Bluff Nursing Home. Born August 24, 1921, in Rockford, the daughter of William Frederick and Hazel (Carlson) Northall.  Graduated from Harlem High School, Class of 1938.  Married John David Foss on September 19, 1942, in Reno, NV.  Member of Grace Lutheran Church, Daughters of the Nile and Harlem Music Boosters.  She loved to sew and was a seamstress at the Wagon Wheel Lodge for many years and for the Milwaukee Ballet.  Jean loved to camp, crochet, bake, sing, hike, dance and she danced in Vandville Shows at the Coronado Theatre at the age of 8.  She also loved to read, all outdoor activities around her house on the river and at the cabin in Spooner, WI.  She hiked through local parks including Rock Cut.  Jean loved her many cats and dogs throughout all her life.  She enjoyed taking care of her family and was always at every concert, ballet and events her children and husband were involved with.  Jean was a Girl Scout leader and a PTA member.  She helped with fundraising for the Kantorai Choir, that her son Dan was a part of, and helped with the Harlem Music Boosters, as all 3 children were in music.  Jean enjoyed playing games and cards with her family and friends from high school.  She was a dedicated Christian and taught her children prayers and to trust in God.  Jean told us that we were rich in love, even if we were “poor” in money.  She was always cheerful, positive and had a twinkle in her eye.  Jean would give hugs and kisses every time we left.  As we returned home, she would say prayers with us at night and tuck us into bed.  Jean was the best mom ever.  She was loved by all our friends and was a second mom to most.  Survivors include her daughter, Petria (Terry) Milroy of Loves Park; grandchildren, Daniella Milroy, Taylor Milroy and Robert Mainock; great-grandchild, Bradley Mainock; special friend, William McConnaughy; daughter-in-law, Judi (Brabazon) Foss; and son-in-law, Larry Bobe.  Predeceased by her husband, John on May 1, 2001; daughter, Kristina (Foss) Bobe on July 22, 2005; and son, Daniel Foss on March 25, 2016.  The family wishes to thank Judi (Brabazon) Foss, Kristi Crosby, family and friends for their loving care, Grace Lutheran Church, Delehanty Funeral Home, and special caretakers at River Bluff Nursing Home, especially Kyle.

Service at 11 a.m. Monday, November 6, in Grace Lutheran Church, 343 Grand Ave., Loves Park, with visitation from 10 a.m. to service time. Graveside service at 2 p.m. in Scandinavian Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.  Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., Loves Park.