She was born on December 22, 1937, in Peoria to Eli and Hilda (Shaw) Fidler. She married William Larke in Trivoli on August 22, 1959, and he passed away on November 27, 2013.
Jean was also preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Harry Fidler and Beverly Brown.
She is survived by her son, Thomas (Susan) Larke; granddaughters, Megan (Matt) Rupert and Emily (Scott) Taylor; great-grandchildren, William and Lillian Taylor and Gretchen and Greyson Rupert; brother, Walter (Shirley) Fidler; and her long-time companion, Virgil Hauk.
Jean went to Farmington High School and graduated in 1956. She then began her nursing career and earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She retired at the age of 70 after working as a nurse for half a century.
Jean truly found her passion in volunteer work. As a volunteer with the American Red Cross, she participated in numerous Disaster Relief trips. In addition, Jean was a volunteer with Friends of the Children of Haiti (FOTCOH), where she went on medical service trips. She also served as a member of the Illinois Medical Emergency Response Team (IMERT).
Beyond her volunteer work, Jean had a vibrant and full life, with a variety of hobbies and interests that brought her joy. She was an avid painter. Jean’s love for travel took her on many cruises. She enjoyed both square dancing and line dancing. She also found great fun with her Red Hat Social Groups and Peoria Women’s Club.
Jean’s generous spirit, warm heart, and vibrant personality left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She was a true embodiment of service, kindness, and joy.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service. Pastor Jack Thompson will officiate. Burial will conclude at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jean’s name to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home or the Bartonville Christian Church.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.
