Joan J. Theden

Joan Fredrickson Theden, 96, passed through the Gates of Heaven in November 2024, firm in her belief of God’s promise to be reunited with her loved ones and to dwell in Paradise.  Joan was a precious daughter, beloved sister, loving wife and the Most Affectionate Mother and Grandmother.  She married the love of her life, Robert Theden, and raised four children, giving them a wonderful childhood.  Joan considered herself the Luckiest Woman in the World while she and Bob enjoyed their children and extended family.  She loved being a grandmother and great-grandmother.

She enjoyed making special moments and memories for her children and grandchildren. One of the many ways was by creating fanciful holiday tables and decorating her home for their wonderment.  One Easter she surprised everyone when she came into the house carrying a basketful of white baby bunnies.  It would be hard to think of Joan without smiling.  She had a marvelous and witty sense of humor, laughing the hardest when she laughed at herself.  Joan enjoyed music and was an accomplished pianist.  She was in several adult chorales, sang in the choir at Bethesda Covenant Church for many years and delighted in attending the Lyric Opera in Chicago.  She and Bob traveled throughout the United States camping and providing yearly vacations for their family. When asked how she would like to be remembered, Joan hoped people would think of her as being kind, which she always tried to be.  And she was. Her Christian faith guided her throughout life and sustained her during difficult times.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Theden, and beloved daughter, Tina.  She is survived by her children, Jack (Sandra) Theden, Nancy (Sam) Pirrello and Tim (Agnieszka) Theden; sister-in-law, Mrs. Audrey Johnson; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to thank Serenity House in Oregon, IL for their excellent care of Joan in her final days. 

There will be a Celebration of Joan’s Life at Bethesda Covenant Church, 2101 E. State Street, Rockford, IL 61104 on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10:30am with a luncheon following the service.  Joan will be laid to rest at Scandinavian Cemetery after the luncheon. 

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