Marijane B. Strunck, of Chicago, passed away peacefully at home on November 13, 2025, at the age of 99.

Beloved wife of the late Honorable James E. Strunck; loving mother of Robert E. Strunck (Markay Bunn), Therese Strunck (William D. Izzo), and Julie Ann Strunck; cherished grandmother of Andrew Hajek, Jaima Hajek, and Anastasia Strunck; dear sister of the late Alice Kanelos and Patricia Schermerhorn; and a fond aunt to many.

Born on July 25, 1926, to Theresa (Marron) and Leslie Byers, Marijane was the first of three daughters. As a young girl, she studied theater and dance at the Jane Addams Hull House. She treasured weekend visits to the Garfield Park Conservatory. As a teenager, she crafted milkshakes, floats, and sundaes for the patrons of the soda fountain at her family's drug store.

Marijane was a graduate of Providence High School and Chicago Teachers College. She began her teaching career with the Chicago Public Schools.

Marijane and Jim married on June 30, 1951. Shortly afterward, she accompanied him to France while he was serving in the United States Air Force, where she spent two years teaching on a U.S. military base. After returning to Chicago, they raised three children together. They were blessed with 37 years of marriage. Her grandchildren brought her profound happiness.

She dedicated more than 30 years to education within the Chicago Public Schools, teaching elementary education and ESL (English as a Second Language) at Prussing, Mitchell, LeMoyne, and Chappell Schools.

Marijane lived a gracious and meaningful life. Her love will endure in the hearts of those she touched. May God bless her and hold her in the palm of His hand. Godspeed!

A memorial service will be planned for Spring 2026 at St. Boniface Cemetery in Chicago. Details will be shared at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to Kolbus-May Funeral Home, 773-774-3232 or their website www.kolbusmayfh.com

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to:

Providence–St. Mel School

119 S. Central Park Ave.

Chicago, IL 60624

Attn: Development