Jeanette Agnes Augle passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 5th, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and devotion. Born on November 2, 1932, in Lansing, Illinois, to Nicholas Anker and Viola Anker Greene, Jeanette’s early years were spent in the warmth of Wauchula, Florida.

In a testament to her enduring spirit, Jeanette was married to Leo Charles Augle for 46 years. Together, they nurtured and raised eight children. Their favorite activities included late-night trips to the drive-in movies and the local Tastee Freeze, annual rodeo visits, Fourth of July carnivals, zoo trips, and camping vacations in Wisconsin with a converted milk truck. As the extended family grew, a single home could no longer hold them, so they assembled in rental halls for holidays, creating wonderlands for the kids. Though Leo departed before her, Jeanette’s heart remained full with the love of her surviving children: Marjorie Miller (James), Leo Augle (late Darlene), Linda Edison (late David), Rita Zajac (late Dennis), Patricia Shellito (Mark), Gail Augle, Robert Augle, and Deborah Jones (James). Her family tree flourished with 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Jeanette’s heartache was tempered by the memories of those who went before her. Her siblings—Martin Anker, Anda Daumer, James Anker, Anna Poortinga, Frances Kowalewski, Loretta Diebold, Howard Anker, and Charles Anker—each held a special place in her life. Particularly dear was her brother James and his wife Virginia, with whom she shared countless cherished moments in Chesterton, Indiana. She also welcomed visits from her baby brother Charlie, who lived in Texas.

At the age of 10, Jeanette suffered from rheumatic fever, falling gravely ill. Her mother, in a desperate bid to lift her spirits, reached out to famed comedian Lou Costello, who was also suffering from the disease at the time. Costello responded with extraordinary kindness. He called Jeanette regularly, offering words of encouragement and support. To brighten her days, he sent roses and dolls, small tokens that brought immense joy to a bedridden child. Costello went even further, dedicating his radio show to Jeanette, using his platform to uplift her spirits during a challenging period. This unexpected friendship with a Hollywood star became a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the profound impact of Costello’s compassion.

Despite multiple health issues throughout her life, Jeanette was stoic and rarely complained, earning the nickname “Energizer Bunny.” She was an avid garage sale and thrift store shopper, preferring her second-hand finds to brand new. Her love for sweets was a gentle defiance against her diabetes, with cookies and cakes stashed discreetly throughout her home, symbols of her sweet spirit and zest for life.

To celebrate Jeanette’s remarkable journey, a service will be held at Beverly Ridge Funeral Home, 10415 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL, on Tuesday, June 11th, friends and family will gather to honor a woman whose life was a testament to enduring love and unyielding strength 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral services 12:00 noon. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. 773-779-4411