Mary "Mary Jo" VanDierendonck

Mary Josine (Mary Jo) VanDierendonck, of Kewanee, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026. Cremation will be accorded. In accordance with her wishes, a private graveside service will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, Robert.

Mary Jo was born on July 20, 1933, in Kewanee, the daughter of Peter W. and Gertrude M. (Cook) Bauer. She married Robert E. VanDierendonck on October 20, 1951, at Visitation Church in Kewanee and he preceded her in death on February 11, 1991. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Helen L. Mitchell.

She is survived by two sons, James (LuAnn) VanDierendonck of Moline and John (Diane) VanDierendonck of Robbinsdale, Minnesota; three grandchildren, Lisa VanDierendonck-Powers, Matthew (Julie) VanDierendonck, and Michael VanDierendonck; and five great grandchildren, Henley and Kaelyn Powers, and Everly, Gavin, and Layla VanDierendonck. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Mary Jo graduated from Kewanee High School in 1951. She began her career at Union Federal Savings & Loan as a teller and later worked in the mortgage loan servicing department. In 1972, she was appointed Assistant Corporate Secretary, and in 1974 she was elected Corporate Secretary, a position she held until her retirement in 1998, concluding 41 years of dedicated service.

A member of Saint John Paul II Parish, Mary Jo enjoyed traveling, boating, and camping, and was always ready for a game of Blitz or other card games. She looked forward each year to spending time with family and friends during the Hog Days celebration. She cherished visits with her family in Minnesota and Moline and took great joy in time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A devoted Chicago Cubs fan, she attended many games and Cubs Conventions over the years.

Mary Jo found peace on her screened in back porch with her dog in her lap, admiring her garden, watching the birds, and listening to her favorite music. Above all, she treasured time with her family.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to Courtyard Estates, Compassus of Galesburg, and the many private caregivers who provided exceptional care for Mary Jo. They also wish to acknowledge her niece, Laurie Kelly, for the loving care she provided over the past several years.

Memorials may be directed to Abilities Plus or the Kewanee Animal Shelter.

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