Jean H. Spiekhout

Jean Spiekhout (nee Mantz, formerly Gardiner), age 95 of Munster, IN, formerly of South Holland and Dolton, IL, went to be with the Lord and her precious family members and friends who passed before her, on Monday, November 2, 2026.

Beloved wife of the late David Gardiner and for 52 years, the late Donald George Spiekhout. Loving mother of Kenny (Donna) Gardiner, late Dirk Spiekhout, Laurie (Gordon) Norris, late David Spiekhout, Jerry (Judy) Gardiner, Mark (Kathy)Spiekhout, and Marianne (Edward) Egelske. Proud grandmother of Dionah Austgen, Marnie Feder, Jessica Gardiner, Conor Gardiner, Caitlin Gardiner, David Gardiner, Tereasa Castor, Amanda Hamill, Susie Miller, Emily Spiekhout, Danielle Spiekhout, Nicholas Spiekhout, Ryan Merke, and Brandon Merke. Great-grandmother of Matilda, Magnus, Landon, Ava, Lydia, Liam, Ryane, Reece, Cassian, Francesca, Frances, and Jack, and one on the way. Dear sister of the late Richard Mantz. Preceded in death by her parents Gene and Luciene Mantz.

Jean was born in Harvey, IL on August 13, 1931 to the proud parents Luciene and Gene Mantz. She had a younger brother Richard Mantz. Jean was an active young girl throughout her school years, participating in sports and outside activities. In high school she met her sweetheart David Gardiner and they later married. They had three children, Kenny, Laurie, and Jerry. Dave became vice president of Riverdale Bank and they lived happily in the great town of Dolton where most of their families also resided. Jean was heartbroken when Dave passed away from a heart attack at the age of 36 and she was left with three young children to care for on her own. Life was changing quickly for Jean.

As she navigated life on her own with the children and teaching at New Hope School, she was introduced to a widower, Donald Spiekhout. They went on a blind date and talked about their children as Don had four of his own. Don and Jean prayed together with the Lord and decided to merge their families. So now they were a family of nine, Kenny, Laurie, Dirk, David, Jerry, Mark and Marianne; the instant large family.

Jean was a wonderful cook and loved to entertain, making meals for her family, baking cakes for weddings, and toffee at the holidays. Don and his brother John had their own business Spiekhout Heating and Air Conditioning which gave many opportunities for Don and Jean to travel the world. As a family there were many wonderful outings with friends, ski trips, boating, and camping. Raising seven children was not an easy task and there were many difficult times Jean always trusted in the Lord to make it through.

Upon Don’s retirement they bought a place in Naples, Florida where they spent many winters, they enjoyed their time and friends there. Spending their winters golfing and playing cards with their wonderful group of friends. And for Jean always baking cookies and of course her famous fudge and toffee, many were the recipients of her care packages. Don passed away in 2020, and Jean moved to Hartsfield Village and loved her time there, enjoying friends and activities. Jean was a friend to many and would do anything for anyone. Jean will be remembered for her kindness, sharing her love for the Lord in any way possible. May Jean rest in peace knowing that her faith in God was her rock. So listen for the next time you hear a bell ring, that means our angel got her wings.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at First Reformed Church, 15924 South Park Ave, South Holland, IL. Interment will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home – Dyer, IN. For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com