Anita M. (Nourie) VanOteghen

Anita M. VanOteghen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 85. After a private graveside service, a public celebration of her life will be held at the Central Schoolhouse in Geneseo, IL on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, from 3:30 – 6:00 pm. Condolences can be left at www.vandemorefuneralhome.com

She was born to Donald and Mary Nourie on December 29, 1940, in Beaverville, Illinois. On May 27, 1961, she married Dennis C. VanOteghen in Los Angeles, CA and he preceded her in death on January 20, 2000. 

She knew and loved Jesus as her Savior and lived out her faith with kindness and generosity. In recent years, she longed for her heavenly home. We take great comfort in the knowledge that she is there now.  

A fun-loving grandmother, her home was always filled with laughter, silliness, warmth, and unconditional love. Fiercely competitive on the racquetball and pickleball courts, she was equally well known for her ability to fix or cleverly rig just about anything. She enjoyed genealogy, photography, gardening, and spirited games of Canasta and Rummikub. Above all, she loved making people laugh. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. 

She is survived by her three daughters, Mary Jo (Patrick) Ribar, Monica (Andrew) Johnson, and Kristine (Shawn) Anderson; grandchildren Michelle (Randy) Bales, David (Katelyn) Ribar; Amy Stuart, Rachel (Tyler) Epstein, Christian (Whitney) Stuart, Drew (Ellie) Johnson and Adam Johnson; Olivia, Reagan, and Ava Anderson. Great grandchildren Paxton and Charlie Epstein, Ford, Jameson, Bella, and Randy Bales, and August and Marley Ribar. She was preceded in death by her husband in January 2000.  

The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff and residents of Liberty Village for their care and friendship and Compassus for their exceptional support.