Obituary of Linda Mae VanDuzen

   Linda Mae VanDuzen, 78, went home peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on the morning of Thursday, November 9, 2023 after an extended illness. 

   Linda was born on July 24th, 1945 at the McNeil Hospital in Oak Park IL, the second child and first daughter of Thomas and Lois (Woldman) Mulder. Linda married the love of her life, Bill VanDuzen on November 5th, 1985. They spent many happy years having amazing adventures together, traveling, seeing new places and meeting new people until his death in August of 2017. After high school, Linda attended a technical college and was hired as a legal secretary, later to become a paralegal for Tedro and Gallano Law Firm in Chicago, IL. Then, until her retirement, Linda worked as a paralegal for the McDonalds Corporation in Oak Brook, IL, where she acquired many lifelong friends. Family was everything to Linda and she enjoyed hosting large gatherings, having those dear to her very near. She loved her family and friends, never forgetting a birthday or special occasion. She enjoyed giving gifts and cards and was genuinely excited to congratulate and celebrate each and every one of her loved ones on their joys and accomplishments. She will be remembered as someone who was creative, enthusiastic, and always willing to help others. She enjoyed nature, caring for animals and ensuring their kind treatment. Blessed were the strays that happened to cross her path, along with all the animals she kept as her own. Linda donated to several charities including childrens’ care, disabled individuals, veterans and animal welfare organizations. Generous and kind, Linda was truly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

   Survived by her son Scott (Dianne) Jernigan of Sykesville, MD; stepchildren William VanDuzen Jr. of MN, Jennifer (Bridson) Wills of Colorado Springs, CO, Pamela (Adam) Koziel of Ottawa, IL; grandchildren Scotty Jernigan, Erik Jernigan, Cole Jernigan; step grandchildren Joyce (Brandon) Klingberg, Nellie (Weilen) Lin, Stephanie (Justin) Scott, Alex Hunter, Sarah Cansino, Jessica Glover, Russell VanDuzen, Bridson Van (Merve) Wills, Kayla (Scott) Langel, Erik Grenemeier, Jake (Karly) Grenemeier, Alexander Koziel, Maxwell Koziel; siblings Thomas Mulder III, James (Gretchen) Mulder, Carol (Joe) Andronaco, Elaine (Ken) Robbins and many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by husband William VanDuzen, parents Thomas and Lois Mulder, brother Warren Mulder, step children Susan Hunter, Michael VanDuzen, Jeannie Grenemeier, step grandchildren infant Elizabeth Hunter, infant William VanDuzen III.

   There will be no services. Cremation rites have been accorded. Linda will be buried next to her husband Bill at the Lisle Cemetery, Lisle IL. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com. A memorial has been established.