Marianne Matthews

            Marianne Ruth Matthews, beloved wife, teacher, aunt, friend and neighbor, died on September 5, 2024, on her eightieth birthday.

            Marianne was born in Dubuque, Iowa, and adopted by Anna and Steve Zern.  She grew up in Joliet, Illinois and graduated from St. Francis Academy.  She received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

            While teaching at Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park, Illinois, Marianne met fellow teacher Jim Matthews, and they were married on June 27, 1970.  The couple shared their home in La Grange, Illinois, for 50 years.

Marianne taught English, Speech, and Film Study, as well as directed plays and musicals and advised the drama club.  Teaching was her passion, and she always found a role for talented students and for those who needed a place to shine.  A number of her students excelled in careers in theatre and the arts, and Marianne enthusiastically followed their successes.  She retired from Carl Sandburg High School in 2001 after a 35-year career.

In her retirement, Marianne volunteered at the Hinsdale Library.  She loved history and amassed an incredible collection of postcards with a focus on Chicago theaters and New York City landmarks.  Marianne was an avid reader, movie aficionado (but only in theaters!) and theatergoer.  She loved to travel and experience upscale restaurants.  A gifted writer and researcher, Marianne created exquisite handwritten journals in recent years.

She is survived by her husband Jim, their loyal neighbors, the Domanchuk family, cousin Ray Felner, nieces and nephews, dear friends and former students.  Marianne was preceded in death by her parents and beloved nephew, Tom Matthews.

A 10am Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, September 20th at St. Cletus Parish, 600 W. 55th St., LaGrange.

Mass will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/@stcletusparish – Funeral Info: 708-352-6500