Ila Jean Harre, age 93, of Crete, passed away Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023. She was born to Ernest and Hazel (Paben) Kaeding on April 18, 1930, in York.
She graduated from Exeter High School in 1949. She was united in marriage to James Bernard Harre on Feb. 5, 1951. From this union came two daughters, Carolyn and Diane. Jean was a seamstress at Formfit Rogers for a number of years until she started her own business, Jean's Creative Sewing. She ran this business for over 25 years. She created several Czech outfits; wedding, bridesmaids, pageant and prom dresses and alterations for people all over the area. Jean enjoyed family and loved it when her husband, Jim, started doing upholstery work alongside her. They could be seen quite often having coffee together.
She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Mark) Downer of Gering; son-in-law, Steve Bennett; grandchildren, Kelli (Jeremy) Moon, Adam (Candy) Downer, Brian (Stephanie) Downer; six great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Jo Volkmer and Cheryl (Bob) Rystrom.
She is preceded in death by her parents and husband; daughter, Carolyn Bennett; brothers, Mervin and Dale Kaeding; and sisters, Saron Ann, Bonnie Otoupal, and Gladys Harre.
A graveside service was Jan. 4 at Lincoln Memorial Park. Arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.
