Arlington Heights, IL - Joanne L. Klicker (Gillette)

April 18, 1933 - February 22, 2026

With heavy hearts and spirits full of gratitude, we celebrate the beautiful life of Joanne L. Klicker,

who passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, in the Arlington Heights home where she

built a lifetime of memories.

Born in Chicago on April 18, 1933, Joanne was the cherished youngest child and only daughter

of Charles and Bertha Gillette. Her life took a serendipitous turn at Wright Jr. College, where she

met the love of her life, Ross P. Klicker. They married in 1954, beginning a devoted partnership

that would span decades and serve as the foundation for a large, vibrant family before his passing.

Joanne's greatest masterpiece was her home. As a dedicated mother of 4, Keith(Jacquie). Joy (Erich) Kocher, Paul (Julie), and Ross C. (Beth), she was the heartbeat of

her children's lives, a constant presence at every school event, a tireless volunteer, and the

most enthusiastic voice in the stands. Whether it was a rainy field trip or a high-stakes

performance, Joanne was there, radiating pride. This boundless support only grew over time;

she became the number-one fan of her 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, traveling far

and wide to cheer on their accomplishments and celebrate their milestones.

In their later years, Joanne and Ross embraced the spirit of adventure. Joanne discovered a

passion for planning global travel, leading them to corners of the world they had only once

dreamed of. These journeys deeply moved her, and she became a passionate advocate for

exploration, constantly encouraging her children and grandchildren to start young and see the

world through a wider lens.

Beyond her family, Joanne's heart belonged to the mission of Lutheran Children and Family

Services (LCFS). A lifelong supporter, she believed fervently in the power to heal families and

make them whole. Her legacy of compassion lives on not only in the family she raised but in the

countless lives touched by her quiet, steady generosity.

We invite friends and family to join us in honoring Joanne's warmth and legacy. A memorial

Service will be held on Saturday, April 4, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 100 S.

School St., Mt. Prospect, IL. A celebration of life will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, and to

honor Joanne's lifelong commitment to children, the family kindly encourages donations to

Lutheran Children and Family Services at www.lcfs.org in her memory.