John C. Pedersen

Stillman Valley, IL – John C. Pedersen, age 70, died Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. He was born Feb. 6, 1955 in Minneapolis, Minnesota the son of Ivan “Pete” and Winifred “Winnie” Lee Pedersen. John married Cathy Bates-Kern on October 27, 1990. He worked as Shop Manager for over 30 years at Petro in Rochelle, IL. John loved spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren. He was an avid NASCAR fan, loved golfing and fishing in his younger years, and enjoyed travelling – especially to Vegas for a few days of blackjack. If he wasn’t at home in his office planning out the logistics of his next trip, John could often be found at one of the local establishments sharing stories, jokes, and the latest news with his countless friends. The man knew everyone and was loved by so many. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Joy Hummel. He is survived by his loving wife Cathy of Stillman Valley; his 3 children: Christian Pedersen of Rockford; Michael (Matisyn) Pedersen of Rockford; and Julie Pedersen of Stillman Valley; his sisters Alicia (Jack) Schneider of Oshkosh, WI and Carol Paffenroth of Rockford, IL; his 3 loving grandchildren Monroe and Wrenley Pedersen and Max Olson; and several nieces and nephews. Private services were held at the Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 136 W. Roosevelt Road in Stillman Valley. A celebration of John’s life will be held on Thursday, June 26th, 2025 beginning at 3:00 PM at the SM & SF Club, 7625 Kishwaukee Road near Stillman Valley, IL. Private burial will take place at Kishwaukee Cemetery. A memorial fund is established in John’s name for “Kick In For Cancer” and sent to SM & SF  Club at 1010 Sandy Hollow Road, Rockford, IL 61109.