Eleanor Jeane Schaub

Eleanor Jeane Schaub, age 100, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at her residence, Greenfields of Geneva, in Geneva, Illinois. Born in Morley, Michigan, Eleanor was raised on a farm near Howard City. A passionate educator, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and went on to receive a master’s degree in music education from Wayne State University in Detroit.

In August of 1948, Eleanor married her high school sweetheart, Kenneth Schaub. Their loving marriage spanned nearly 65 years. Together, they raised a family and cherished their retirement years at their beloved lake house on Lake Carroll in Lanark, Illinois. In her later years, Eleanor found joy in giving back to others, volunteering at Delnor Hospital where she brightened the days of many by sharing her musical talent, playing the piano in the atrium. She also remained an active and devoted member of the United Methodist Church of Geneva, where she served as a pillar of the congregation through her time, faith, and service.

Eleanor is survived by her four children, to whom she was a loving mother: Stephen William (Martha) Schaub, Gary Kenneth (Jamie) Schaub, Kimberly Anne Grisso, and Mary Renee (Thomas) Arlis. She was a proud grandmother to Marcy Barkema, Sara (Chris) Kurowski, Taylor (J.P.) Lulek, Logan (Alyssa) Arlis, and Danielle (Matthew) DeJong. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Lyla and Hadley Barkema, Finley and Connor Kurowski, Blake and Brooks Lulek, and Waylon, Maverick, and Sterling DeJong.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth; her parents, Nellie and William Garbow; her brothers, Barney (the late Gete) Garbow and Bill (the late Kay) Garbow; and her grandson, Clinton Arlis.

Eleanor will be remembered for her wisdom, warmth, and enduring devotion to family, music, and education. She touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of grace, resilience, and love.

A memorial service celebrating Eleanor’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 25th at 3:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church of Geneva, located at 211 Hamilton Street, Geneva, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m., with a reception to follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Eleanor’s lifelong love of music, Michigan, and education by making a gift to the Interlochen Annual Fund in her memory. Contributions may be made online at Interlochen Center For the Arts – Eleanor Schaub.