Maryann L. Brookman

Maryann L. Brookman (née Jahneke), lifelong resident of Joliet at age 78, passed away peacefully in her family’s home on September 23, 2025. She was born to her father John Jahneke and her mother Catherine Jahneke (née Svetlecic), in Joliet, on June 2, 1947.

Maryann was a devoted wife, mother, and grandma who cared deeply for her family and worked her entire life to provide them with a warm and loving home. Her smile was easy and natural, and often contagious. She was friendly to all, with such a welcoming heart. Maryann leaned into her natural caregiving instincts and answered the call when both her parents and her sister required significant care as they navigated mounting health challenges near the end of each of their lives. She relished her role as a grandmother, attending bowling tournaments and baseball and basketball games. Always even-keeled, she provided a steady presence of support for her grandchildren. Amongst her favorite ways to fill her free time, she enjoyed cooking for her family, loved to crochet blankets and keepsakes, and spent many countless hours gardening, tending to plants and flowers and putting together floral arrangements. Many of her dearest friends and relatives will attest to her passion for all things Disney related. She often wore Disney outfits, she loved to travel, and especially enjoyed her trips to the Disney theme parks. Thanks to her love of butterflies, her family can look forward to many years of reminders of her love, as they will surely think of her every time a butterfly crosses their path.

She was preceded in death by her parents John and Catherine, her dear husband of forty-three years Wilbur Brookman Jr., and her sister Virginia (the late Richard) Duval.

Maryann is survived by her daughter Lori (Scott) Offerman, her two grandchildren Tony and Jason Offerman, and many other extended family members, friends and loved ones.

Maryann was laid to rest in a private committal service on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 23060 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60431.