Joyce A. Van Laeke

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