Jean Cecilia (Chien) Yedlicka

Jean Cecilia (Chien) Yedlicka, 94, of Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Northbrook, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. Jean married Joseph Yedlicka on February 19, 1954, in Chicago, IL. He preceded her in death on March 29, 1988. Jean was also preceded in death by her brothers-George L.T. and Robert and by her sister, Sophia. Jean leaves her children- Joseph/Nancy Yedlicka and Jean/Brent Graber; grandchildren-Genevieve Yedlicka, Grace/Eric Yedlicka Grubbs, Katherine/Cody Graber Thompson, Joseph Graber, and Daniel Graber; great- grandchild - Eva Thompson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jean was born in China on August 2, 1931 to Shou Heng and Mary Chien. She emigrated to the United States from Taiwan to attend The College of Saint Teresa in Winona, Minnesota, earning a Bachelor's degree of Social Work. Jean also earned a Bachelor's degree in education and a Master's degree in Special Education from DePaul University (Chicago). She began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher at St. Juliana's School in Chicago, and later worked at several Chicago Public Schools as a special education teacher with her longest tenure at Garvey School. She was beloved by her students and was an outstanding teacher. Jean was passionate about music and was a member of the Queen of All Saints Basilica choir for many years. She loved to listen to classical music and took voice and piano lessons for decades. She also loved to dance and enjoyed taking ballet and tap classes at Giordano Dance in Evanston. Additionally, Jean loved to exercise, which she continued to do until her passing. Chinese food was her favorite and she was an excellent cook. Jean traveled extensively, visiting the Far East (China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan), Egypt, the Holy Land, Hawaii, and multiple countries in Europe. Her love of life and work ethic were an inspiration to all.

Jean most loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and took great pride in their accomplishments. She was much loved and will be greatly missed.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options in Schiller Park, Illinois.