Marie Weiden

1932 - 2025

Marie Weiden
Born: October 4, 1932 in Spring Valley, IL
Died: March 25, 2025 in Princeton, IL
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Marie Rose Weiden, 92, on March 25, 2025. Marie was born on October 4, 1932, in Spring Valley, IL, the daughter of Cesare and Rose (Biagini) Salsi.
Marie was raised in Cedar Point, Illinois, by her loving and devoted parents, alongside her two siblings, Alice and Richard. She cherished and shared countless memories of childhood with her family and friends. From a young age, she dreamed big and, as a strong and independent woman, earned her degree as a radiologic technologist. She then ventured to New York City, where she worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and had the honor of participating in a procedure for then-Senator John F. Kennedy. Eventually, Marie was drawn back to the Illinois Valley by her future husband of 49 years, Donald C. Weiden. Together, they raised their family, and she became actively involved in numerous community organizations, including St. Joseph's and St. Bede Parents' Associations, the Altar and Rosary Society, and the Illinois Valley Women's Club. Marie later returned to work as an instructor at Sauk Valley Community College, where she helped inspire and guide many students into the radiological field she loved. Inspired by her husband, who played football at LPHS and Western Illinois University, Marie developed an avid interest in sports, with a particular passion for Notre Dame football. Together, she and Don enjoyed attending games with family and friends, always cheering on the Fighting Irish. Inspired by her father's dream to visit every state, Marie and Don spent their retirement traveling. Winters were spent in Florida, while summers were enjoyed in Wisconsin. Above all, her grandchildren became the center of her world, and she cherished the many family gatherings they shared.
Marie was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by her family and friends. A true matriarch, Marie was renowned for her love of life, warmth, ability to listen and help others, and, of course, her impeccable party planning skills. Her memory will live on in the hearts of the many family members and friends whose lives she touched.
Marie is survived by three daughters and one son, Mary (Gordon) Gruenes of Lake Forest, IL, Jane Weiden (Ed Culbert) of Grayslake, IL, Amy (Larry) Williams of Peru, and Donald W. Weiden of Amboy, IL; ten grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Services and burial will be private.