Ann L. Mapes

Ann Louise Mapes (née Lessing) passed away on February 24, 2026. Born on October 2, 1940, in Chicago to the late Marie and Wendell Lessing, she grew up in Hinsdale, Illinois, surrounded by music. A gifted pianist, Ann graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1962 and began her career teaching elementary school. She soon met Donald Mapes, and the two married and built a successful real estate business together.

Ann had a warm and playful spirit. She loved making people smile with her sense of humor, and she found joy in reading books, playing solitaire, listening to music, watching the Hallmark channel, and learning new words to playfully stump her family. She is survived by her children Sheryl (Jeff) Johnson, Don Mapes Jr. (Kori), Sue (Peter) Pacione, and Dave (Erin) Mapes; her grandchildren Shelby, Jake, Elizabeth, Matthew, Nathan, Jack, and Emma; and her nieces Connie Leopold and Mary Beth Zumkeller. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald and her brother Kenneth Lessing (Mary Ann).

Her family will cherish the memories of her kindness, wit, and love. Ann will be deeply missed by all who knew her.