Obituary of Nancy Lee Rajnowski

Nancy Lee Alumbaugh Rajnowski passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, surrounded by her family. Nancy was born May 13, 1954 in Moline to John and Edna (Tiny) Alumbaugh. She was the third of eight children. Always the peacemaker, Nancy was able to resolve most conflicts in the household. Nancy moved to Dixon with her family at an early age and then to Sterling when she was in the 3rd grade. She attended Central Grade School before moving on to Junior High and graduating from Sterling Highschool in 1972. On December 2, 1972, Nancy married Richard L. Rajnowski in a small, loving ceremony at her parent’s house. After Rick returned from Japan the couple moved to South Carolina where Rick completed his service in the US Marine Corp. Following a short stay in Sterling, Rick and Nancy moved to Sulfur, Louisiana. It was during their time in Louisiana that their first child Richard Lee Jr. was born in 1983. The family of three moved back to Sterling in 1984, where their son Lucas Paul was born in 1985, completing their family in the best way. Being a wife and mother were the joys of Nancy’s life and she devoted herself wholeheartedly to both roles. She loved cross stitch and spent hours with her dear friend Becky making all kinds of projects. Nancy had a large extended family and her home was always open to them for a meal, a hug, a laugh, or anything else they might have needed. Her loving smile was contagious and she was always quick to forgive. Nancy enjoyed working for a time at St. Mary’s Catholic School in the lunchroom and library. She shared her love of reading with the students as well as many of her family members. Nancy spent much of her time in prayer for her family and friends. Nancy leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved husband of 49 years, Rick and son Luke. She is also survived by six siblings; John W. (Mary) Alumbaugh of Mahomet; Julia A (Dean) Timm of Midlothian, TX; Michael E. (Kristy) Alumbaugh of West Salem, WI; Melinda S. (Fred) Peterson of Amboy; James J. (Laurie) Alumbaugh of Sterling and Jennifer L. (Chad) Simpson of Dixon. Nancy was the loving aunt to many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Nancy was preceded in death by her precious son, Ricky and her brother, Patrick (PA) Alumbaugh as well as her parents John and Edna Alumbaugh and her grandparents Leroy and Anna Schatz and Ed and Rachel Alumbaugh. Her family is rejoicing in the knowledge that Nancy is in Heaven with her Savior Jesus Christ, and reunited with her son, Ricky. She will be deeply missed but her presence will remain in all those who were fortunate to receive her abundant love. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 11AM Monday, May 2, 2022 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Sterling, with Reverend Carlos Monsalve officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation will be from 1PM-4PM Sunday May 1, 2022 at Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling, with Rosary recited at 3:30PM A memorial has been established. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com.