Geraldine “Deanie” Ann Damhoff, 96, of Morrison, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at her residence in Morrison.
Deanie was born on September 14, 1928, in Morrison, to her parents, Don and Kathryn (Rose) Zuidema. Deanie attended Green Valley Grade School and Morrison High School for three years and then went to Beauty School to fulfill her dream of becoming a Beautician. She graduated from beauty school in 1947 in Sterling, IL. After schooling, she met the love of her life, Donald Damhoff, at the local 4-H Animal Fair while Don was home from military leave. They married on April 14, 1948, in Morrison.
In 1950, they moved to their farmhouse on Hazel Road in Morrison and began their working careers. Don farmed his land for over 40 years, while Deanie worked out of her home doing hair and raising her children. Deanie’s dedication to her family and community was unwavering, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will continue to inspire.
Deanie was an active member of Ebenezer Reformed Church in Morrison. She and her family participated in the weekly services and other activities, including one of her passions, the church Quilt Club. Her love for quilting was evident in the care and creativity she put into each piece, a testament to her nurturing nature.
In 2014, Don and Deanie moved into Windsor Manor, now Homestead Assisted Living & Memory Care. They enjoyed the close-knit community of residents and staff and the activities and crafts that Deanie enjoyed participating in.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband of over 68 years, Donald Damhoff in 2016; son, Douglas Damhoff in 1978; daughter, Debra Ann (Damhoff) Morgan in 2020; grandson, Jason Damhoff in 2021; siblings, Robert Zuidema, Warren Zuidema, and Dorothy Vos; daughters-in-law, Sue Damhoff and Becki Damhoff.
Deanie is survived by her sons, David (the late Sue) Damhoff and Richard (Julie) Damhoff, all of Morrison; son-in-law, Michael (the late Debra) Morgan of Sterling; seven grandchildren, Derik (Nina) Damhoff of Morrison, Dustin (Jackie) Damhoff of Morrison, Maggie (Jody) Young of Rock Falls, IL, Scott (Emily) Morgan of Geneva, IL, Danielle (Clayton) Bicker of Venice, FL, Lindsay Damhoff of Riverton, IL, Jillian (Dave) Horn of Jacksonville, IL; 16 great-grandchildren, Dailey and Dash Damhoff, Sophie, Kaleb, and Ellie Damhoff, Logan and Kyle Young, Briston and Oakley Bicker, Quinn Morgan, Kirsten and Keeley Damhoff, Blayne English, Trae Damhoff, and Camden Filbrun, and Lainah Endzelis; four step-grandchildren, Michael Morgan, Teri (Dan) Danreiter, Angie (Brian) Waugh, David (Keli) Dykstra; 12 step-great-grandchildren, Sydney Young, Brooke Danreiter, Connor, Riley, Brody, and Gracie Morgan, David Horn, Ethan, Evan, Addison, Quinn Waugh, and Mason Shadle.
Deanie’s passing is a loss not only to her family, but also to the entire Morrison community. Her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her church and community will be deeply missed.
The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Ebenezer Reformed Church, 309 E. Park Street, Morrison, IL 61270, with Rev. J. T. Bean, Pastor of Ebenezer Reformed Church, and Ken Renkes co-officiating.
A Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m., until the time of the funeral.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home, Morrison, IL.
Interment will be at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, IL, next to her husband, Don and son, Douglas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Homestead Assisted Living & Memory Care and Ebenezer Reformed Church.