Joyce A. Van Laeke
Obituary's Biography:
Joyce A. Van Laeke, 64, of Grayslake, IL, passed away peacefully at her home on May 20, 2025. She was born on July 14, 1960, in South Bend, IN, to Donna and Robert O’Shea.
Joyce was a proud graduate of Northern Illinois University, where she served as captain of the NIU Silverettes Dance and Drill Team. On September 8, 1990, she married her husband, Jeff, in Chicago.
Her professional career began in software development and IT consulting, but in 2001, she found her true calling in education. She began as a substitute teacher with School District 46, later transitioning into special education. Over the years, Joyce became a beloved fixture in student athletics, STEM enrichment programs, and the performing arts—where she shared her talent and passion as a choreographer. Joyce’s warmth, creativity, and unwavering dedication to students left a lasting impact on her community.
She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Jeffrey; her loving parents, Donna and Robert O’Shea; her cherished children, Kara Van Laeke of Austin, TX, Brian Van Laeke of Grayslake, IL, and Erik Van Laeke of Hillsboro, OR; and her siblings, Robert (Shirley) O’Shea and Karen (David) Jarrard.
A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 4pm until 8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 11am. Interment will be held privately. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
To view live stream of service click here: https://youtube.com/channel/UCMP0PFhS_wyXxgsTzbPEEyw
To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/B3YPLNNFL2SLCDQH
My beloved friend, we have had many adventures over the past 25 years. You have touched my life in ways no one will understand. I have turned to you in my hour of needing emotional support. You have been there for me and more importance, for my children. I never have ever had to worry about an emergency. You were just a phone call away. No matter what the issue was, you were there with never a judgemental word. My heart is broken at the loss of you. I well miss you forever. I am a better person because of you. You can count on me to be there for Jeff, Kara, Brien and Erik. You are my forever frien and I look forward to seeing you again. I love you very much and will miss you always. Love your forever friend, Cathy
Rest in peace my friend and Silverette co-captain. You left a loving impression with all of us on the NIU Silverettes and Marching Husky Show Band.
Jeff, Kara, Brian and Erik, I am so sorry to hear of Joyce’s unexpected passing. She was a wonderful person to have known and I have wonderful memories of spending time with all of you in Chicago. You are in my prayers. Aedamar (cousin from Ireland)
I am so sorry to hear about Joyce‘s passing. My deepest condolences to your family.