Linda Gladys Haase was born in Chicago in 1946 and grew up in the nearby suburb of Glen Ellyn. She was a loving wife, mother, musician, and educator who inspired those around her with her intellect, creativity, and warmth.

Linda pursued her academic passions at the University of Chicago, where she earned a master's degree in English Literature. She began her career as a researcher with Encyclopedia Britannica, a job she enjoyed immensely, but after a period of downsizing, she transitioned to Golin Harris, a Chicago-based PR firm. Starting as a secretary, she was later promoted to research analyst and corporate librarian, a role that recognized her educational talents and that she held with pride until the early 2000s.

As a young woman, Linda was active in anti-war movements, participating in historic protests in Washington, D.C. She also pursued her love of the theater, performing as an amateur actor and remaining an avid theater-goer throughout her life. Her appreciation for music and the arts was a guiding force, and she passed that love to her son, Zachary, whom she had with her beloved husband at age 43. She dedicated herself to his early education in music, starting him on piano lessons in their Chicago home, where she also encouraged his academic growth.

Linda married twice, finding her lifelong partner and true love in her second husband, with whom she shared a private wedding in Austria and a honeymoon throughout Europe. Together, they built a life in Chicago, later moving to Wheaton, where Linda raised her son and worked part-time as a professor of English Literature at the College of DuPage. She taught a wide range of subjects, including composition, logic, poetry, and world literature, and was beloved by her students for her dedication and enthusiasm for learning.

Linda's life was marked by her love for her family, her unwavering support as a mother, and her joy for the arts and music, which she shared generously with all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in her family, her students, and the music that continues to play in her honor.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Joseph; her children Chris Leinweber & Zach (Emmalee Luckas) Leinweber; her brother Warren (the late Jan) Haase; her nephew Dane Haase; and her niece Beth Haase.

She was preceded in death by her father, mother & step-mother.

A visitation will be held St. Matthew United Church of Christ, 1420 S Gables Blvd., Wheaton, IL 60189, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial service 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow. The service will be livestreamed through the St. Matthew UCC's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stmatthewucc/streams

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to American Cancer Society & Alzheimer's Association .

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027 .