Obituary

Joanne V. Peterson, 96, of Rockford, IL passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was born August 11, 1929 in Rockford, IL to Edwin and Violet (Elfverson) Swenson. She graduated from East High School in 1947. Her fondest memories of her youth were of her playing sports such as bowling, baseball, and ping pong. Joanne married Don Peterson on February 20, 1954 in Rockford, IL. Joanne was formerly employed by various corporations as an industrial nurse and retired from Camcar after 18 years in 1991. After retiring, she volunteered at Saint Anthony Hospital for 14 years.

Joanne loved to spend her time enjoying coffee with friends, watching soap operas and Jeopardy, cooking, and shopping for a good bargain. She was a cherished mother and grandmother with the biggest heart. In her last days, her biggest joys were crafting and seeing her great grandchildren, Elsie, Brooks, Lilah, and Max.

Joanne is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Keith) Nelson; grandson, Ryan (Katy) Nelson and granddaughter, Courtney (Matt) Nelson; and great granddaughters, Elsie and Lilah Blume, and great grandsons, Brooks and Max Nelson. She was predeceased by husband, Donald Peterson; parents, Edwin and Violet Swenson; and brother, Dick Swenson, and sister, Dolores Johnson.

Joanne will be buried at Scandinavian Cemetery on a date to be determined