Jennifer Lynn (Wiltse) Liebenow

Jennifer Lynn Liebenow passed peacefully at 48 years young, January 27, 2021.  First diagnosed with breast cancer at age 38, she was in remission for five years when the cancer metastasized to the liver and then bravely fought another 5 year battle.  It was a courageous and humbling fight with the dignity Jennifer possessed.

Jennifer was born to James and Judith Wiltse in Des Plaines, IL on July 22, 1972, along with her twin sister Janet (Boksa).  She grew up in Mount Prospect with two watchful older brothers, Patrick and Richard.  She attended Carthage College and found her love of teaching.  She planted roots in Crystal Lake, IL at Richard Bernotas Middle School, where over the course of her 25 year career she taught Special Education, Technology and STEM.  Jennifer valued education, completing several educational certificates and a master’s degree.

Jennifer’s selflessness was shown by her ever-present willingness for volunteering and coaching.  Over the course of two decades at Bernotas, Jennifer consecutively coached boys’ and girls’ city league basketball.  In addition, she coached and managed the track and cross-country seasons.  A love of children, teaching and sports was not the only contribution she offered School District 47, at her passing Jennifer was Vice President of “CLETA”, teacher’s union.   Her life experience drove her passion for health care for teachers and their families.

Jennifer is survived by her daughter Camryn Rose Liebenow.  Camryn was Jennifer’s purpose for living and in the same vein the reason she fought so valiantly for life.  Camryn had the good fortune to be doted on by a strong and compassionate single mother.  Jennifer immersed Camryn in activities and gave her the appreciation to explore and enjoy life. Camryn’s positive attitude can be contributed to her mother’s commitment to helping others and giving back.  Jennifer did not just make an impact in her professional life, she was a beloved aunt.  Her nephew Chase and nieces Carly, Alexandra, Samantha and Isabel will hold tight to their fun filled memories of their Aunt Jen.   Jennifer shaped a generation of students and a daughter to be insightful and caring members of society.

A few special notes of acknowledgement.   Thank you to Jennifer’s extended family for their generous gift towards Camryn’s college fund.  Also, the Bernotas Family that has been an endless supply of love, friendship and support to Jennifer over the years.  Their gifts have been too many to count, but easily memorable .  Lastly, the family would like to thank Chad Spaulding for walking beside Jennifer with loving support through her journey.

A celebration of Jennifer’s life will be planned for June in Williams Bay, WI.