Sr. Jean Hitzeman, formerly known as Sr. Jean Walter Hitzeman, died Feb. 25 at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian. She was 86 and in the 69th year of her religious profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation.

Sr. Jean was born in Chicago to Walter and Alice (Brockob) Hitzeman. She graduated from Aquinas High School in Chicago and received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Barry College (University) in Miami, a Master of Science degree in biology from DePaul University in Chicago, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in zoology from the University of Michigan.

Sister ministered in education for 46 years, including teaching at St. Mary High School, Royal Oak (1953-55); St. Alphonsus High School, Dearborn (1955-56); and St. Agatha High School, Detroit (1956-59). Sister was professor and chair of the Biology Department for eight years at Siena Heights College (University) in Adrian, a Congregation institution. Sister became a resident of the Dominican Life Center in Adrian in 2006.

Sr. Jean is survived by loving nieces and nephews.

The funeral liturgy was Feb. 28. Burial will be in the Congregation cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to Adrian Dominican Sisters, 1257 East Siena Heights Drive, Adrian, MI, 49221.