Body of missing Winthrop Harbor woman found

The Winthrop Harbor woman who was missing for two months before being found dead this week, was receiving psychological counseling before her disappearance, police said Wednesday.

Winthrop Harbor Police Det. Chris Willets said 60-year-old Jeanne Pike would disappear from her home for long periods of time, never telling anyone where she was going.

Pike left the family home Dec. 20 and was reported missing the following day. Police conducted an exhaustive search that included helicopters and dogs, Willets said.

Her body was discovered about 10 a.m. Tuesday in a wooded area, east of the 1300 block of Third Street, just off the railroad tracks near the village's train station, police said. The remains were discovered by a railroad worker after the snow melted, Willets said.

“She was located in a very wooded area near the train station that had plenty of heavy pine brush,” he said. “At this time, it doesn't look like there was any foul play.” It is believed she may have died as a result of exposure, said Lake County Coroner Dr. Richard Keller. An autopsy is schedule for Friday.