Michele Glass, age 78.

Michele Glass, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025, at the age of 78. Michele’s life was a testament to compassion, friendship, and a love for learning.

Born on October 31, 1946, Michele pursued a career in nursing that spanned more than 40 years. Her work began in psychiatric units, where she brought care and understanding to those in need. After many years she returned to school and earned her master’s degree in nursing. Michele found a great deal of meaning in mentoring young nurses and so joined the faculty at Rush where she mentored young nurses, inspiring many to carry forward her passion for the field. Her influence on nursing eventually expanded as she moved to Pearson where Michele served as a test developer for the national nursing boards.

Michele’s zest for life extended beyond her professional accomplishments. She loved spending time in New York City, where she found joy walking in the park and attending theater performances. She was an avid mah jongg player, cherished her daily walks of 3 to 6 miles in the Chicago Botanic Gardens, and approached life with optimism. Her motto was that her "glass was always half full" — a sentiment she lived by and shared with those around her.
Michele met her husband, Jeff, when they were children at a swim club in New Jersey. Their bond grew into a lifelong partnership built on love, respect, and shared memories. Together, they created a beautiful, close-knit family and a life rich in love and purpose.
She is survived by her loving sons Michael (Hillary) Glass and Stephen (Laura Deeley) Glass, her beloved grandchildren Ruby and Asher Glass, and countless friends and colleagues who were touched by her wisdom, warmth, and kindness. A funeral service will be held on January 10, 2025, at 12 noon at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, IL 60077. Michele’s legacy of care, strength, and kindness will live on in the countless lives she touched. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the 92nd Street Y at www.92ny.org/donatenow. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com.