News : Memorial Saturday honors VSMS library associate Jeannine Slezak

The Jeannine Tree honors the many years that Ms. Slezak decorated the VSMS library.

VSMS staff and students are planning a memorial service in the library for Jeannine Slezak.

For years, Jeannine Slezak has been known as the library associate who decorates the VSMS Media Center for Christmas (as well as other seasons throughout the year).

But now, the school is facing its first Christmas without her.

Jeanine Slezak died Monday, Nov. 25, after a short illness.

The media center is "where Jeannine spent so much of her life doing her favorite things," said Superintendent Mary Jo Hainstock.

"Jeannine was always caring and giving toward all students and staff," said VSMS Librarian Deanna Weber. "Students knew the had a safe place to be in the library when they came for a visit. She had such a creative knack and loved decorating!! She was generous to a fault and always supportive of others. She was the hardest most conscientious worker I know. She is what made the middle school library run so smoothly."

Jeannine "made VSMS a better place because of her smile, kindness and incredible decorating talent," said teacher Kris Howes-Vonstein.

VSMS staff and students honored Jeannine in her final days with a "Jeannine Tree," a Christmas tree decorated with lights and heart-shaped notes.

Former VSHS cheerleading coach

Many VSHS cheerleaders remember having Jeannine as a coach in the 1990s and early 2000s.

"She was a great coach," said Shanna Lee Frickson. "She was strict but only wanted the best. She had faith in me."

Another VSHS cheerleader who had Mrs. Slezak for her coach was Amy Vee Worthen.

"Jeannine was a role model," said Worthen. "For me, I've always wanted to be a cheer coach like her. She always had a smile and took pride in her work. She helped mold me into the person I am today. She really meant the world to me and she will be missed by many."

Memorial service in VSMS library

Jeannine's memorial service took place Saturday in the VSMS Media Center.

Several cards written by VSMS students were on display, along with photos of Jeannine's family and photos of her involved in her favorite activities.

See a 2010 story about Mrs. Slezak and her love of decorating HERE.