Loretta Jean Foster, 79, of Burns, passed away at her home Sept. 6.

Jean was born Jan. 15, 1940, in La Junta, Colo., to Emanuel and Martha (Schmidt) Wenick. She moved to Harney County at an early age and graduated from Burns Union High School in 1958. Jean attended business school in Boise, Idaho, thereafter, and then returned to Burns to marry to Bill Foster Aug. 30, 1959. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary just seven days before her passing.

From the time she was young, Jean found joy in taking care of others. Growing up, she took pride in caring for her younger brother, Gary, as well as other children who they spent time with. Jean always knew she wanted children of her own. She and Bill welcomed their first child and eldest son, Steve, on April 18, 1961, beginning the legacy of the Foster family. Robb, Susan, and Angie followed over the next 11 years.

Throughout her life, Jean helped and supported Bill with their company – William F. Foster Construction – and together they made it one of the most successful and reputable businesses in Harney County. Despite that tremendous commitment, Jean’s number one job was always being a mother, and an eventual grandmother. At her time of death, Jean was the proud matriarch of four children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Jean enjoyed maintaining her garden and flowers, attending coffee hours with her many friends, and, most importantly, spending quality time with her loved ones. She was an avid Burns Hilander fan, too, and made sure to never miss one of her children’s or grandchildren’s games. In her later years, Jean and Bill traveled to Arizona during the winter months, where they enjoyed each other’s company, living out of their fifth wheel at Lake Havasu. Jean was always happy to have a heartfelt conversation with a stranger, and could find a way to connect with all in her presence.

Jean is survived by her husband, Bill Foster; son, Steve (Cheryl) Foster; son, Robb (Lisa) Foster; daughter, Susan (Todd) Hueckman; daughter, Angie (Ron) Simpson; grandchildren, Carla (John) Brinkley; Torin (Lilly) Foster; Cameron Hueckman; Ty Hueckman; Allie Hueckman; great-grandchildren, Maci Brinkley and Quincy Foster; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Gary Wenick.

A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, Sept. 14, at 3 p.m., at the St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Burns. Private graveside services will immediately follow. The family invites you to join them thereafter at the Pine Room for dinner and a time of sharing. Contributions in Jean’s memory may be made to the Hilander Booster Club – where she was a lifetime member and supporter – in care of LaFollette’s Chapel.