Jeannette A. Bankert

Jeannette A. Bankert, lovingly known as Jan, passed away on October 1, 2026, at the age of 90. She was born on December 10, 1935, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her church, and the many communities she served with quiet dedication and warmth.

Jan attended grade school at St. Peter Lutheran Church & School and was a graduate of Arlington Heights High School in Arlington Heights, Illinois. She continued her education at Arlington Beauty Academy in Arlington Heights, preparing for a career that reflected both her skill and her care for others.

She worked as a beautician for many years, a profession that allowed her to share her talents while building lasting connections with those around her. Later, she worked at the Rolling Meadows Library for 20 years, where her steady presence and commitment were surely appreciated by colleagues and patrons alike.

Faith was an important part of Jan’s life. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, where she served in many different groups, including the Choir, Altar Guild, Fellowship, Bible study, and church council. Her involvement reflected a generous spirit and a deep commitment to her church family.

Jan also found joy in the simple and creative pleasures of life. She enjoyed bowling, gardening, crocheting, and knitting. She loved working on puzzles and many different crafts, pursuits that spoke to her patience, creativity, and love of making things with her hands.

Among the great blessings of her life was her marriage to her beloved husband, Marlin "Pete" R. Bankert. They shared 57 years together, a lasting testament to love, partnership, and devotion. He preceded her in death, and she also was preceded in death by her father, Adam Hoffman; her mother, Mildred (Pahnke) Hoffman; her brother, Richard Hoffman; and her sister, Darlene Lobojko.

Jan’s memory will be cherished by her loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Dena (Gary) McIntosh of Indianapolis, IN; her son, Dan (Dawn) Bankert of Foley, AL; and her daughter, Dawn (Gene) DeRosa-Grochowski of Dundee, IL. She also leaves behind her grandson, Joshua DeRosa, and her granddaughter, Morgan McIntosh, as well as her sister, Jacqueline Pfister. May her family find comfort in the many memories they shared with her and in the example of faith, service, and love that she leaves behind.

Jeannette A. Bankert will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew her. Her life was one of steady faith, meaningful work, creative joy, and deep devotion to those she held dear. 

In lieu of memorial donations, contributions are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church, 3201 Meadow Drive Rolling Meadows, IL 60008. They may be reached at 847-398-7122.