Jeanne Zmich

The world became a little dimmer on August 23, 2026, when Jeanne Marie Zmich left us. Born on November 25, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph and Elizabeth Popp, Jeanne grew into a woman defined by resilience, humor, and a fierce, unwavering love for her family. She had a way of making everyone feel at home — through her kindness, her steady presence, and the way she remembered the small details that made people feel seen.

A self‑made woman, Jeanne excelled from an early age. She received numerous awards and high honors at Jahn Grammar School and continued her academic success at Lake View High School. She attended Northern Illinois University for a year before life’s responsibilities called her into the working world. But Jeanne never stopped learning. Later in life, through the Governor’s Work Study Program, she earned her bachelor’s degree in business from Northeastern Illinois University and went on to earn her master’s in education from the same institution—a testament to her determination, discipline, and belief in personal growth.

Jeanne began her career at King Korn Stamps, where she worked for many years as a switchboard operator. There, she developed the sharp organizational skills, calm professionalism, and people‑first approach that carried her through the rest of her working life. She later joined Labelmaster, where she spent over 40 years, rising from office assistant to Vice President through dedication, skill, and quiet leadership. She was deeply respected for her work ethic, loyalty, and the way she treated everyone with dignity—from new employees to longtime colleagues.

Outside of work, Jeanne found joy in collecting Depression‑era glass, especially Fire‑King glassware. She loved the history behind each piece — the colors, the craftsmanship, and the way something simple could hold so much beauty. Her collection reflected her own spirit: bright, cherished, and full of stories.

Jeanne is survived by her son John I. Blankenship Jr., his wife Christine Zuber, and her three granddaughters — Taylor, Alexandria, and Samantha Blankenship — who brought endless joy to her life. She is also survived by her sister, Lisa Warren, and her niece, Charlotte, all of whom she loved deeply. Jeanne taught her family to be brave, to be kind, and to find beauty in ordinary moments. Her love was steady, generous, and lifelong.

A celebration of Jeanne’s life will be held in November, close to her birthday, at one of her favorite places — Lou Malnati’s — where family and friends will gather to share memories, laughter, and the warmth she brought into every room.

Jeanne’s legacy lives on in every person she touched — in the stories we tell, the traditions she passed down, and the love she gave so freely.

Instead of flowers, please give to the Chicago Art Institute https://www.artic.edu/support-us/ways-to-give or Paws https://www.pawschicago.org/