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Honoring the Legacy of Jean Schober, Former Vice President of the MCEDC

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Jean Schober, former Vice President of the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation and renowned community leader, passed away on July 30th, surrounded by family and friends. 

For more than two decades, Jean Schober was a driving force behind the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation and a pillar of the McHenry County business community. Her leadership, vision, and deep commitment to service shaped not only our organization but also the broader economic landscape of our region. 

Joining MCEDC in 2003, Jean served under five presidents, held the role of Vice President, and stepped in as Interim President in 2008. She brought with her a wealth of experience and a passion for connecting people and ideas. Among her many contributions, Jean created one of MCEDC’s most recognized cornerstone events, the Annual Dinner, which continues to unite the public and private sectors in celebration of local business success and economic development. Jean was also the driving force behind the Business Champions Awards, which celebrated individuals and organizations’ achievements and regional impact. Her thoughtful leadership, tireless attention to detail, and commitment to giving back to the community made these meaningful celebrations of our business community’s achievements each year. 

Jean’s servant leadership extended well beyond the MCEDC. She was an active community leader, serving on the Board of Directors for Family Alliance, as a Commissioner on the McHenry County Housing Commission, President of the Algonquin Garden Club, and Scholarship Chair of the McHenry County Republican Women’s Club. Her generosity, dedication, and belief in giving back made a lasting impact countywide. 

A memorial service celebrating Jean’s life will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (service at 7:00 p.m.) at Kahle-Moore Funeral Home, 403 Silver Lake Road, Cary, IL 60013. 

Jean was more than a colleague; she was a mentor, a friend, and the heart of our organization. Her impact on the MCEDC and the McHenry County business community is profound, and her list of accomplishments is not to be understated. From the programs she created to the countless relationships she built and the community she helped strengthen; Jean’s legacy will continue to shape our work for years to come. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.