Mary Barbara "Barb" Schlesinger, of Wilmington, IL, formerly of Hinsdale passed away at home on January 5, 2024. She was born on June 5, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, to Richard and Mary Letitia “Letty” Wren. Barb was the beloved wife of the late Otto J. “Jim” Schlesinger III, and is survived by her devoted fiancé Jon Prodehl. 

Barb was a loving and dedicated mother to her children, Otto (Amy) Schlesinger and Tim Schlesinger, Kim (Chris) Duchene. She was an amazing grandmother to Lily and Jack Schlesinger, Lauren and Tyler Duchene, and Ian and River Christenson, all of whom brought extraordinary joy to her life. Barbara was also a cherished sister to Richard "Doc" (Sue) Wren, Mary Leticia "Tish" Degnan (the late, Richard) and Walter "Wally" (Sheila) Wren. Barbara will be dearly missed by her many nieces and nephews and her Arneberg, Birge and Dillon cousins. 

Barb had a bright smile and fun loving zest for life. She enjoyed many hobbies over the years and was always game for a new adventure. She loved to ski when she was younger and made many happy memories spending time at the lake. Most recently, Barb loved her days at the gym with her friends in Wilmington.

Barbara grew up on the southwest side of Chicago in the Beverly neighborhood. She graduated from St. John Fisher Elementary School and Mother McCauley High School. Barb spent most of her life as a devoted homemaker taking wonderful care of her family. She also loved the time she spent as a teacher’s aide at St Isaac Jogues School in Hinsdale, and as a volunteer with the Hinsdale Humane Society. Barb loved to be on the go and cherished the many friendships she formed over the years. Most  especially Barb treasured her wonderful life-long friends, Roger and Barb Layland, Mike and Jean Slott, JR and Priscilla Jokema, and Ed and Jean Baggett, who she loved for more than 50 years. 

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 12, from 10 am to 1pm, followed by a memorial service at 1pm, at Adolf's Funeral Home in Willowbrook, IL. 

Barb will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. May her soul rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.