Annemarie Hays

On Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024, Annemarie (Luchsinger) Hays, 92, formerly of St. Anne, departed graciously into eternal life after a short stay at Riverside Hospital. She was born on September 13, 1932, in Zurich, Switzerland, the daughter of Fritz and Gertrude (Mueller). Annemarie married William “Bill” Hays on July 24, 1954, at Mt. Olive General Baptist Church, in Bluford, Illinois. They were married for 42 years until Bill passed in 1996. Annemarie was preceded in passing by her parents and one sister, Verena Luchsinger. Annemarie was employed over the years at Riverside Hospital, Manteno State Hospital, and Good Shepherd Manor where she made many friends and enjoyed helping others. She was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Kankakee for many years. Annemarie had many interests throughout her life. She collected blown glass, especially from Lotton Art Glass in Crete, Illinois. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting and occasionally played card games (even poker), slot machines, and board games. Most of all, she loved spending time with the family she treasured. In earlier years she traveled to Switzerland to enjoy family time. On several occasions she brought grandchildren there to visit also. She was generous, kind, and thoughtful. Annemarie was affectionally called; “Grandma” and “GG” which she loved and cherished. Surviving are her children, William “Steve” Hays (Sherry), of Marshall Illinois, Bryan “Fritz” Hays (Joelene), of St. Anne Illinois, Barbara Miedema (Jim) of Momence; 8 grandchildren, Stephanie Neely (Kevin), Jennifer Herman, Steven Hays (Colleen), Aaron Hays, Alan Hays (Jaime), Sarah Miedema, Eddie Miedema (Rita), and Jordan Miedema; 19 great-grandchildren; sister, Regula Bernasconi-Kiss (Miki), of Zurich, Switzerland; niece, Andrea Moore; nephew, Mark Bernasconi; and her beloved cat, “Baby Girl”. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2024, from 11am – 2 pm at Jensen Funeral Home, located at 3639 E. State Route 17, Kankakee, IL. A graveside service will follow at St. Anne Cemetery, St. Anne, Illinois. In lieu of flowers please send donations in Annemarie’s name to the Kankakee County Humane Foundation 2214 IL -1. St. Anne, IL 60964.