Norma Jean Wistedt, 78, of Illinois City, passed away Monday, December 30, 2024, at Generations at Rock Island.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, 201 E. 4th Avenue, Milan. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Edgington Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Rock Island County Illinois Genealogical Society in Jean's memory.

Jean was born February 8, 1946, in Morrison, Illinois, a daughter of Fred and Norma (Olson) Gartz. She graduated from Morrison High School and attended Augustana College. Jean married William "Bill" H. Wistedt on August 22, 1970.

Jean was a beloved member of the Rockridge community, a dedicated bus driver for 31 years in the Rockridge School District, and a beloved softball coach. Born with a passion for life, Jean cherished her time spent outdoors. She enjoyed fishing, walking, gardening, photography, and genealogy. Jean was a member of the Rock Island County Illinois Genealogical Society, where she devoted a lot of time. She was also a member of the Volks Walk Club, where she traveled the Midwest on various hiking trips.

Jean was not only a devoted caregiver to the children on her bus, but also a loving grandmother who delighted in taking "adventures" with her grandchildren. She created countless memories and abundant laughter during her baking days around the holidays. Jean's vibrant spirit, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be profoundly missed. Her love for her grandchildren and extended family and the joy she brought along with all of her "adventure" time will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts.

Those left to cherish Jean's memory include her husband of 54 years, William "Bill"; sons, Christopher (Laura) Wistedt and Andrew Wistedt; grandchildren, Hadley (Lane) Weinert, Logan Wistedt, Hunter Wistedt, and Caleb; great-granddaughter, Luella Weinert; and daughter-in-law, Nichole Monson.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Raymond Gartz.

Online condolences and memories may be shared with Jean's family on her tribute wall at www.wheelanpressly.com.