Suzanne Louise (Peterson) Main, 82, went to be with Jesus on November 6, 2023.
She was born on September 21, 1941, in Galesburg, the daughter of Carl and Aletha (Burhorn) Peterson. The importance of family and faith were there from the beginning: growing up with an older and younger brother on a farm outside of Oneida and attending the Ontario Congregational Church. She graduated from ROVA High School and the American Institute of Commerce, a professional training business school. Upon graduation from AIC, she worked as a legal secretary in a law firm in Galesburg before she married. Once married, she was a full-time homemaker, and her husband’s business partner managing the farm’s books.
She married Gary Gene Main on August 8, 1965, at the First Presbyterian Church in Galesburg. Together, they built a life of love and dedication to each other and their family.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Gary Main of Altona, IL; their three children, Carla (Andy) Gibbons of Altona, IL, Rodger (Marcy) Main of Ames, IA, and Luke (Jennifer) Main of Peoria, IL; nine grandchildren, Ella Gibbons, Annabeth (Max) Roberts, Charlie Gibbons, Gracie Gibbons, IdaMae Gibbons, Natalya Main, Vladimir Main, Emmett Main, and Monroe Main.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Kenneth Peterson, and an infant son, Mark Main.
Suzanne was a woman who faithfully served her church and community through countless hours of volunteerism. She was an active member of The Grove Community Church and the former United Church of Altona. Her detailed, organizational skills combined with her tireless, work ethic benefitted many people for many events. When Suzanne was a young girl, she arrived home one day to find her dad had bought her a piano. Through many years of piano lessons, she became an accomplished pianist. These lessons led to a lifetime of Gary and Suzanne sharing their love of music through her playing the piano and him singing. Suzanne’s yard was always full of blooming flowers from spring to fall providing beauty for many to enjoy. She spent many hours each year in her vegetable garden and orchard providing an abundance of fresh produce to share. Known for cooking and baking: her strawberry jam, applesauce, and pies are legendary. Kindness shared through celebratory cards, congratulatory notes, and written letters were acts that Suzanne consistently did her whole life. The love of travel was something Gary and Suzanne shared which led them all over the world constantly learning, experiencing, and seeing other ways of life.
Most importantly, Suzanne will be remembered as a loving and generous wife, mom, and grandma. She created a loving home where people gathered around a table for meals, holiday traditions were celebrated, and love and support were always felt. Going to Grandma and Grandpa’s house was always a favorite place to go. Grandma Main was the best grandma who was always willing to babysit, planned special outings with the grandchildren, and enjoyed watching them in their activities. Her entire family has been immensely blessed by her love, and her strong, positive influences will carry on for many generations to come.
The family would like to thank the incredible caring staff at the Knox County Nursing Home and the committed guidance of OSF St. Mary’s Hospice for everything they provided and gave. The Knox County Nursing Home staff’s hearts are dedicated to providing their patients with compassionate care. Suzanne felt their love and kindness daily during her stay.
Memorials may be made to the Altona Historical Society whose proceeds will be used to support the efforts currently underway to renovate the 2nd floor of the Ransom Public Library in Altona into a museum and event center or to the Altona Ransom Public Library itself.
Visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 pm Friday, November 10, 2023, at The Grove Community Church in Altona. Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, November 11, 2023, at The Grove Community Church with Pastor Scott Cramer officiating. The burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery in Altona. Hinchliff- Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.-h-p-w.com
