Obituaries
Jennifer G. Crossen
August 18, 1971 - January 28, 2025


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VISITATION
January 31, 2025 | 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Friday - Yurs Funeral Home St. Charles
- Funeral Services
- January 31, 2025 | 5:00 P.M. Friday
- Yurs Funeral Home St. Charles
In Loving Memory of Jennifer Grace Crossen
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jennifer Grace Crossen, age 53. Jennifer’s life was a testament to unparalleled strength, courage, tenacity, and resilience—a true WARRIOR in every sense of the word.
Jennifer was a devoted and loving mother, whose legacy will be carried on through her three children: Catherine Grace (26), William “B.J.”James (23), and Alexis “Lexi” Jennifer (20) Crossen.
She was a cherished daughter of Maureen and Philip Lewis and a treasured sister to Seth (Bhavna), Michael (Kimberly), and J.J. (Katelyn). Seven nieces and nephews admired her as their adoring aunt; each member of her family was personally touched by her generous spirit, resounding faith, and unconditional love.
A native of Marshalltown, IA, Jennifer attended the University of Iowa and settled in St. Charles, IL to raise her three children. She advocated for the crucial role of women in business and rose through the ranks at the global Suncast Corporation to serve as Director of Strategic Sourcing, where she left an impact of excellence and empowerment. Jennifer embodied determination and triumphed over the countless challenges she faced, including her battle with cancer. A two-time breast cancer survivor, she inspired those around her with her unwavering strength and grit.
Four years ago, Jennifer faced yet another health challenge head on with her characteristic perseverance and resolve when she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Despite the relentless nature of her disease, Jennifer pressed on with remarkable courage to savor memorable moments with her loved ones and live each day with purpose and grace. Even in the final weeks of her fight, her spirit never wavered. We find solace in knowing she is now at peace.
Jennifer’s indisputable legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
We ask for your thoughts and prayers for our family during this difficult time.
May her memory be a blessing.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Living Well Cancer Resource Center, 422 Williamsburg Avenue, Geneva, Illinois 60134.
Condolences
Rebecca Meyer from Goodlettsville, TN
"The joke is that Jen “picked me up” at a bar. The old McNally’s location to be exact, shortly after her and the kids moved to St. Charles. That started a great friendship I will forever treasure. We had sleepovers & went tent camping with all our kids, single mom nights out, holidays & celebrations, heart ache and tears, etc. I’m very thankful we had one more Christmas baking event together this past December, even though it looked different than the first time we did it. There are too many memories to write. I know Jen is in heaven, no longer in pain. She was a warrior until the very end, always praying for a miracle. Until we see each other again… I love you & miss you!The chorus to the last song she told me she loves just a few weeks ago.Hard Fought Hallelujah by Brandon LakeI'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt Been-through-hell hallelujah (ooh, ooh) I'll bring my storm-tossed, torn-sail Story-to-tell hallelujah, whoa-oh God, You've been patient God, You've been gracious Faithful, whatever I'm feeling or facing I'll bring my hard-fought, heartfelt, it-is-well hallelujah, oh Hallelujah, hallelujah (ah, ah, ah, ah, ah)"
Carol Stream Lawn and Power from carol Stream, IL
"Sorry for your loss Our prayers are with you"
All the Volleyball Parents from St Charles, IL
"Dear Crossen Family, We were heartbroken to hear about Jennifer’s passing. Words cannot express the sadness we all feel in losing such a wonderful person. Jennifer was more than just a fellow volleyball parent she was a dear friend, a constant source of support and strength, and someone who brought joy and laughter wherever she went. We will always cherish the incredible times we all shared together, traveling from place to place for games, cheering on the girls as they gave their all on the court. The state finals were such a special moment, and we all knew how proud Jennifer was of Lexi and everything she accomplished. She was her biggest fan, always there with encouragement, love, and that unwavering enthusiasm. Jennifer wasn’t just a supporter of Lexi she was a dedicated fan of the entire volleyball team. Whether she was rallying the parents to cheer louder, organizing fundraisers to ensure the girls had everything they needed, or volunteering for every possible extracurricular activity, she was always at the heart of it all and giving it her all. Her energy and dedication were unmatched, and she made such a difference in the lives of not just our daughters, but all of us as well. Beyond volleyball, we will never forget the fun we had as a group dining out or tailgating where we visited where we talked for hours about our daughters, their futures, and how much fun they were having with such a great group of coaches and teammates all while enjoying some really good food and drinks. It was always fun to compare notes and talk about our girls with Jen. Those moments were filled with laughter, stories, and dreams, and Jennifer was always there, sharing in the joy and excitement of it all. It was a time we all treasured with her. Her kindness, strength, warmth, and unwavering support will never be forgotten. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. If there is anything we can do, please don’t hesitate to reach out. With deepest sympathy, The Volleyball Parents"
Carolyn Bowe-McLeod from Oceanside, CA
"I loved Jennifer very much.... she was my younger cousin and we had so much fun making memories when we were children. Our children did not get to know each other as much as we did and I regret that more than anything! I can see from watching her and her family grow from a distance that she made her family a priority and she fought to be there for them! She was an amazing Mother. I am so saddened by her loss and my heart breaks for her family! She was certainly loved and I am blessed to have been able to be a small part of her life years ago! Hugs to the entire family! I regret I can not be there for the service but I have another to attend this weekend as well. Much love from my family to yours! Carolyn -"
Karen S Heyse from Batavia, IL
"She fought a good fight and will forever be a hero in my mind. Her passion for life and family was so evident. She will be missed by many. Her legacy and strength is a testimony to her devotion to her Savior, her parents, and her children. She is released from her pain, and now walks with her Lord who was her stronghold."
Accel Entertainment (Christie) from Burr Ridge , IL
"Cat and your family, we are so sorry for your loss. Loved reading about your mom, a woman after my own heart in championing women in the work world. So amazing!! We hope you are getting to spend quality time with your family during this hard time. Please take care of yourself and each other. Whatever we can do for you let us know. Again so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. In lieu of flowers we have made a donation in your mom’s name to the Living Well Cancer Resource Center. Sincerely Christie and all of Accel Entertainment"
Deanna M Kennemer (Smith) from Coeur d'Alene, ID
"Dear Jennifer, with teary eyes I say goodbye to my cousin who I fondly remember playing with in Grandma's basement every holiday as children growing up. You were a friendly, pretty girl who made a big impression on all who knew you. I will continue to remember you in my prayers. God has a new angel up there and I'm thankful knowing you are there."
jack Cunnigham from Aurora, IL
"At a time like this no words are capable of easing the pain left behind. GOD BLESS you Jennifer and that GOD give your loved Ones comfort at this time of great loss R I P"
James Gaffney from St. Charles, IL
"Our Prays & thoughts are w/Phil, Maureen, & Family on this day."
Angelika Necka from MAPLE PARK, IL
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Jennifer was kind and happy to be around people. I will never forget her beautiful smile. We will miss you. We will never forget you. You will always be in our hearts."
Emily Timm from Hapy Valley, OR
"Jennifer's life is an incredible testament of what it's like to live life to it's fullest. She took her diagnosis and made the best of it, embracing life's most precious gifts when she was healthy to do so. She fought that cancer with everything she had and never gave up, all with that beautiful smile! Nothing takes away the pain of losing someone you love, but I pray that the memories of her life and her love shine through the tears and bring a smile and embrace. Her physical body has been taken, but her spirit is still here. Much love to you all. I am so, so sorry for your loss."
Derek Fichtner from Seoul, South Korea, IA
"My condolences to the family. I went to school with Jennifer. I believe the last time I saw her was at an MHS school tour, perhaps 18 years ago. She is in my thoughts and prayers, today. Rest in peace."
Jodi (Schoer) Duffy from Marshalltown, IA
"Lewis Family, I am sorry to hear of Jenny's passing. When your family moved to Marshalltown, and Jenny was a new student at Franklin Elementary, we all did our best to befriend her. She was so smart, and very witty! My condolences. Jodi (Schoer) Duffy"
Jason Stoltzfus from Muscatine, IA
"Jenny was a classmate of mine at Miller Junior High and MHS. She was a great student, and an accomplished athlete participating in a variety of sports and activities. I was very moved to hear of Jenny's passing. Her character and spirit made her a leader among many. The integrity she possessed carried her to great heights. My condolences to the family. May the good lord cradle you during your time of mourning."
Ted Buchwald from Laguna Beach, CA
"To the family, I wish you peace and I wish you the serenity that fond memories can bring in difficult times. There are no doubt infinitely many.I think back to 12 Denmead Boulevard. Jennifer, the little sis was always quick with a retort to whatever nonsense may have been lobbed her way by an older brother, a younger brother, or maybe a smug visitor mocking a Duran Duran poster. I think of missed basketball shots heroically saved from denting the hood of a behemoth 1980s American station wagon. I remember knocking at the backdoor on a summer's day, all of the window screens are open in the porch between the house and the garage, the sound of music is playing on a boombox just inside the kitchen door ... loud chatter, everyone happy, as always ... perhaps there is discussion of an upcoming school project or someone is showing off a couple tap dance steps. Just an average day at 12 Denmead.Jennifer, your life was too short, but certainly not short on the things that matter most.TedOn behalf of my Mom, Peggy Buchwald ... May God give you comfort and peace. To all the families involved my heart goes out to all of you. I know the Seth Lewis family from Marshalltown for he is a good friend of my son, Ted. I lift you up to God for comfort and peace."
Kendall (Brothers) Burr from Overland Park, KS
"Please accept my condolences for a tragic loss far too early. I was fortunate to grow up with Jenny back in our Marshalltown days. My heart goes out to her family."
Christiana Headley from Rock Island, IL
"I am so sorry to hear about Jennifer. I worked with her in admissions at Augie many years ago. She was such a sweet, kind person and loved her kids dearly. My deepest condolences."
Mike & Kathy Foulkes from Saint Charles, IL
"We are so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy."