Stella E. Peterson, age 84, of Oquawka, Illinois, passed away at 4:18 AM on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at the Southeastern Iowa Regional Medical Center Hospice House in West Burlington, Iowa. She was born January 23, 1940 in Galesburg, Illinois, the daughter of John Carl and Mary Gertrude (Perry) Cecil. Stella was raised in Galesburg and attended school there. She attended Galesburg High School and in her later years attained her General Education Degree. On December 30, 1955, she married John E. Peterson, Sr. in Bettendorf, Iowa, and he preceded her in death on September 25, 1999.
Stella began work at the Aledo Nursing Home as a nurse’s aid. She then worked at IRC Corporation in Burlington, IA, then Western Stoneware in production in Monmouth, IL. After this Stella was a checker at Neigh Grocery Store, and lastly was employed at the Iowa Army Ammunitions Plant in Middletown, IA. Stella enjoyed her garden and loved birds, especially hummingbirds and orioles. Mostly, Stella loved socializing and being with her family. She is a member of Faith Bible Church in Oquawka, Illinois
Stella is survived by three daughters, Connie L. (Kevin) Burgdorf of Media, IL, Karen A. (Joseph) Cook-Boughton of Oquawka, IL, and Debra K. Williams of Monmouth, IL, one son, John E. (Becky) Peterson of Oquawka, IL, sisters, Linda (Tony) Terpening of Galesburg, IL, Joan Crawford in Missouri, and Betty Wade in California. Also surviving are numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister, and one brother.
As were Stella’s wishes, cremation is being accorded. A memorial service is planned for 10:30 AM on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Turnbull Funeral Home in Oquawka, Illinois. Her family plans visitation from 9:30-10:30 prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment of her ashes will follow in the Oquawka Cemetery. “Casual Dress” is desired for those in attendance. Memorials are being established for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Faith Bible Church in Oquawka. For more information, or to leave a remembrance of Stella, please visit www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com.
