Jean Sinclair

Jean Sinclair, 72, wife of Gary M. Sinclair, of Chicago, passed away on Wednesday, February 23 2022. Jean was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1949 to John and Bernice Hoekstra. As a child, she was a bright student whose mother insisted that she attend college to pursue her academic goals. Jean went to Trinity Christian College where she took every English course offered and also minored in history. After she graduated, Jean met Gary while they were both working at Merrill Lynch, she as a wire operator and cashier and he as a book keeper. The couple married in 1978.

In the late 1960s, Jean became a member of Hope Christian Reformed Church in Oak Forest, Illinois. To say that she was an active member of the church is an understatement. Initially, she became a deacon. Later, she spent over twenty years working as the church Treasurer. Every Tuesday and Thursday, she drove 30 miles from her home in Chicago to the church with an oversized ice-tea in hand. There, she managed the church bills and member donations. Moreover, she supported the church staff with whatever they needed, treating them with the same love and graciousness as her own family.

Jean was a thoughtful, compassionate woman who delighted in making others happy. When her four children were young, she spent countless hours shuttling them to various activities and cheering them on at their sports games and performances. With her three grandchildren, she was endlessly patient and enjoyed hearing about their daily adventures. At times quiet and reserved, Jean was a keen and kind-hearted listener. She sent everyone in her life birthday cards, Christmas cards, and cards of encouragement—even when they were living halfway around the world. Jean always carried a book in her purse, and she always wore a wide-brimmed, sunhat. She loved sports, especially hockey and tennis. During the last few days of her life, she and Gary spent time together watching the Olympics. She put the needs of others before her own, and she never hesitated to lend a helping hand. She will be remembered for her eternal generosity and support.

Jean was the wife of Gary; mother of Josh, Seth, Elizabeth, and Julia; mother-in-law to Audrey Looker, Meredith Mele, Adam Riglian, and Joey Jestus; grandmother of Ethan, Emmy, and Henry; sister of John and Fred Hoekstra, and aunt to several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother George Hoekstra. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Christian Reformed Church or Open Books at www.open-books.org.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at Hope Christian Reformed Church, 5825 W. 151st St., Oak Forest, IL 60452 at 11:00 a.m.

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