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Aldana Kallenbach Obituary
OUR MOST BELOVED
ROCKFORD - Aldana "Donna" Jean Kallenbach, 73, our most be-loved, who will be remembered for her heart, her honesty, and love, died Oct. 23, 2009, in her home, surrounded by her loving family. Born Dec. 23, 1935, in Rockford, daughter of Earl and Margaret (Juhlin) Webster. Mar-ried Mike Kallenbach on Nov. 1, 1952, and together they lovingly raised their children, Craig (Eva) Kallenbach, Dale (Angela) Kallenbach, Jeff (Sara) Kallenbach, Sue (Joe) Esposito and Lisa (Roger) Reid. Their cherished grandchildren are Sherry (Sean) Wiley, Michelle (Andrew) Foor, Alex and Stacey Kallenbach, Karlee and Jacob Kallenbach, Anne-Marie and Amanda Esposito, Amber, Brianna and Michael Reid; cher-ished great grandchildren, Zach-ary Draffkorn, Matthew and Nico-las Foor and Luke and Lexi Wiley; brothers, Charles (Pat) Webster and Laphael Webster. Predeceased by parents; brother, Joseph Webster; and sister, Trudy Nelsen. Donna was a lifelong Rockford resident, active in the PTA in Church School and a for-mer employee of the Rockford School district. She enjoyed reading, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed. The family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt thanks to Marilyn of OSF Hospice, Dr. Contreras at OSF Saint Anthony, and the entire medical and sup-port staff with OSF medical facilities and hospice.
Service at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, in First Assembly of God Church, with Pastor Bob Taylor officiating. Visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26, in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory, Rockford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Road, and from 9:30 a.m. Tuesday to time of service in the church. Private burial in Willwood Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family. For online condolences, visit
honquestfh.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Aldana Kallenbach
Michelle Foor
October 23, 2012
Every year on this date I make a lemon meringue pie.
Sometimes I cry a little when I roll out the dough or whip up the egg whites.
Usually I smile when I am stirring the filling, waiting for it to boil.
I always say a "thank you" to God and the universe for blessing me with 28 years spent with an amazing lady.
My Gram passed away three years ago today.
The grief isn't as raw now. It isn't as blunt punch to the gut when I remember. I am able to think about fun and happy moments now without a flood of tears. I can talk about her, tell stories that make me laugh, tell my children about her, sing the songs she sang to her grandchildren (and her own children, too, I suppose) to my children without overwhelming sadness.
But it still stings. It still makes me sad to know she really is gone. To think she won't hold or rock my Emerson. To not be able to share my life's adventures with her. To know her chair in the kitchen is empty.
I make a pie every year on the anniversary of her passing as a way to remember her and share her awesomeness with others.
The recipe I use is hers.
The basic list of ingredients and instructions written down in her hand writing. The same handwriting that adorns my left forearm and reminds me every day of the love that surrounds me.
The first time I made the pie, a year before she passed when I was in the mood for it and knew I wouldn't be home for her to make it for me, the meringue slid off the filling. I called her and asked what happened. "Patience" she said. I had to let the filling cool.
The second time I made the pie, the meringue didn't set. I called her, it was the summer before she passed, and asked her what happened. "Patience" she said again. I did not beat the egg whites long enough before adding the sugar.
When I made the pie on the first anniversary of her passing it turned out beautiful. And I burst into tears as I cut into it because I could not call her to share my happiness over getting it right.
But this year, as I rolled the crust, let it cool, stirred the filling, let it cool, whipped the egg whites to just the right stiffness then added the sugar slowly, spooned the meringue onto the top of the filling--working from the outside in, and watched as the oven browned the meringue to toasty perfection, I practiced patience. And thanked my Gram for that lesson. Not just as it applies to pie, but life.
Life happens on it's own time, regardless of our intention and agenda. We have to be patient. We have to have grace. And we have to have love.
I thank my Gram for demonstrating all of that in the years I had with her. For being an example.
I am going to enjoy the pie I made this evening. And my family will, too. We will talk about Gram (or GG as the boys call her). And maybe I will pull out some pictures of her. I will remember her today...and let the grief get washed over by love and grace. And know I will see her again.
Maybe we can make a pie together. With plenty of patience.
jill johnson
October 24, 2010
i will never foget u aunt donna.....mauhhhzzzz
jill johnson
December 19, 2009
woww....i was always so glad to see my aunt donna when i would visit from florida....she always made me feel like i had never left my hometown....her smile was always a great encouragement to me....my sister(julie) and i went to an aniversary of uncle mike and aunt donnas at an italian restruant in town and we had such a good time with the family and aunt donna was so happy we could be there to celebrate with them....she was always so proud of her family....she should be they all turned out so well with her and uncle mikes great upbringing....i love you aunt donna and am proud to be a part of ur life...jill heatherington-johnson
Michael Nelsen
November 30, 2009
There is a lot to say but I do not know where to begin. Aunt Donna was always special to me and I felt that somehow I was special to her. She was always there for special conversations I don't think anyone else knew about but her and I. It was that sensitive comment she would make to me when on an outing to Lake Geneva, at a picnic at Page's, or during one of many overnights when I had to bring my own cereal. LOL, She could fix a bruise or scape or soothe feelings and get us kids all playing again together. I am glad I have an Aunt Donna. This makes me miss my own mother, Trudy, who when when she was dying said, "don't cry for mimi 'cause I am going home where I will be happy. You might miss me for awhile but it will be alright, 'cause I am going home where I need to be". So welcome home Donna, say hi to Ma for me.
Gayle Herrick
November 18, 2009
May your hearts be at peace. What joy she brought to your lives!
Gayle Herrick
Calleen Bird
November 14, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
November 13, 2009
Dear Kallenbach family:
I have many fond childhood memories of Donna and her family. It is very sad for many that she has passed on. I will always remember her smile; her upbeat personality, and of course her delicious spaghetti and homemade pies. My parents were good friends of Mike and Donna's for many years. I can remember watching boxing matches(on black and white TV); eating breakfast in the park; and how fatantic she looked with her daily workouts with Jack LaLane. I will never forget Donna, she was a special lady that will be remember by so many. God bless you all. Donna you will never be forgotten.
Gwenda Lantz (Estes)
Oklahoma City, OK
Kimberly Barrett-Luttery
November 12, 2009
Michelle,
My prayers are with you and your family. May God continue to hold you in the palm of his holy hand.
Lisa Slabaugh
November 10, 2009
I worked with Donna when I was a teacher in the Rockford School District. Donna was a WONDERFUL, DEDICATED and PASSIONATE lady. She always went above and beyond what was expected of her. I have such fond memories of Donna and I will miss her. I remember her asking me if she was doing her job right. She was always trying to be better helper . She jumped in with both feet and would always lend a hand when necessary. She will be dearly missed!!!!!
Cheryl Clikeman Klavenga
November 8, 2009
Donna was a loving, caring, and gracious lady. All who knew her were blessed. I am sorry for your loss.
Regina Huggard
November 2, 2009
Stacey, my name is Regina Huggard and we attened Montessori together. I am sorry for the lost of your grandmother. I recently just lost my grandmother so I can understand where you are coming from. I will be praying for your family. God Bless!
mike fisher
November 2, 2009
dale and family sorry for ur loss my prayers are with you.
October 31, 2009
Angie & Dale, Sorry to read about your Mom. Angie, get in touch 971-5566, Martha
Judy VanHeesch
October 28, 2009
Jeff, Sara and family,
My heartfelt condolences to all of you. Your mom will be dearly missed but will be in your hearts forever.
Margaret Webster
October 28, 2009
Brother-in-law Mike; Nieces, Lisa & Sue; Nephews, Craig, Dale & Jeff -
Your (wife/mom)was a very "special" person in my life. We first met when Aldana was 15 years old and I was her brother Joe's fiance'. I was 19. WE shared a lot of walks and talks together and she was a bridesmaid at our wedding. One of the things she did when we were togethr, (she had a knack for making "home made french fries") which she would do for us in your grandmother's kitchen. McDonalds could not begin to compete with your mom's french fries.
Neither I nor Doug
were able to attend the wake, but I
understand from my daughter Pam and her spouse, Kevin, and my grandauther, Jessica - that it was a lovely tribute and that she had many friends. I know that "Donna" has left a Legacy with each one of you that will live and be reflected throughout each one of your lives.
"In the measureless realm of time how brief is our earthly life; yet how momentous and eternal its issues! Life's experiences coming thick and fast, are the soul's appointed means of growth. Today we build our castles, tomorrow fickle fortune snatches from hope the promised joy. Today prosperity or the presence of loved ones fills our cup with joy, tomorrow adversity or sore bereavement casts us into the valley of sorrow." Have the trustful Faith that Martha had of her brother Lazarus and the Hope of immortal life. "Jesus saith unto her, I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me, though her were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever believith in me shall never die. Believest thou this?"
It will be alright!
Lots of Love, Aunt Margaret
Tanja Dressel Taylor
October 28, 2009
I am sorry for your loss. I was fortunate to have known her. She was a loving and gracious lady.
Kathy Dumont
October 27, 2009
Dear Uncle Mike & Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Donna's passing. I have so many happy & funny memories of her and her special little ways with all the kids. She really was the heartbeat of the Kallenbach family...the bindfing force...full of love and laughter. How lucky you all were to have a such a beautiful, special lady in your life. She certainly will be missed, and forever tucked within your hearts!
marilyn OSF Hospice
October 27, 2009
Donna was a loving and gracious lady. I will never forget her beautiful blue eyes and her spirit. She never once complained to me. She was truly a gift from God. Love all of you guys. You are like my family and I feel at home at your house. Always every one is talking and laughing. Eating all the time wondering about the next meal. The pizza and famous pumpkins squares. Thanks for the honor or helping in the care if your most prized wife,mother,grandma and sister. She was a angel and I have no doubt where she is and that she is with those silver birds she saw in her last day of life.
October 27, 2009
Donna was a loving and gracious lady. I will never forget her beautiful blue eyes and her spirit which never once complained to me. She was truly a gift from God. Love all of you guys. You are like my family and I feel at home at your house. Always every one is talking and laughing. Eating all the time wondering about the next meal. The pizza and famous pumpkins squares. Thanks for the honor or helping in the care if your most prized wife,mother,grandma and sister. She was a angel and I have no doubt where she is and that she is with those silver birds she saw in her last day of life.
marilyn Holsinger
October 27, 2009
Donna was a loving and gracious lady. I will never forget her beautiful blue eyes and her spirit which never once complained to me. She was truly a gift from God. Love all of you guys. You are like my family and I feel at home at your house. Always every one is talking and laughing. Eating all the time wondering about the next meal. The pizza and famous pumpkins squares. Thanks for the honor or helping in the care if your most prized wife,mother,grandma and sister. She was a angel and I have no doubt where she is and that she is with those silver birds she saw in her last day of life.
Ty LeRoy
October 27, 2009
Dear Uncle Mike and Family,
I was so saddened to hear this news about Aunt Donna. While I have not seen her in many years, I still felt the heartbreak from losing someone that I loved. Our prayers will be with you all during this time of sorrow.
Love,
The LeRoy's
(Ty, Wendy, Brylee, Brayden & Bryson)
Diane Brennan
October 26, 2009
Craig, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother I wasn't feeling well and decided it would be better to stay home.I am thinking of you though.I know how hard it is to lose a parent.Take care,
Diane Brennan
October 26, 2009
Dear Uncle Mike,
Craig,Dale,Sue,Jeff,Lisa,
I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Donna's passing. I only learned today. I have so many wonderful memories of Aunt Donna. She had the famous Pizza's always, she always knew what to do when to do it and how to make everything come together.
When I was a young girl Aunt Donna told me she had a wooden leg, I was only like 6 or so and I believed her. So I asked if I could kick it. Aunt Donna said sure. She did not realize how I could kick but she never said it hurt. It was way later I found out she was teasing me. I will never ever forget Aunt Donna she was so flexible and with the boys playing football Always went to Connie's pizza on Auburn Street after the game. It was great.
I would love to share with you the meaning of FAMILY. F=FATHER, A=AND MOTHER I = I L=LOVE Y=YOU! You all made such a wonderful Family. Always remember ( Father and Mother I Love You) Aunt Donna I will miss you forever I will always remember the good times we all had together. Aunt Donna knew how to throw all those parties. What a Wonderful Hostess she was.
I had came up from Iowa and it was on a Sunday and we were invited to Craig and Eva's place for Sunday morning breakfast. It was fantastic.
My Prayers and thoughts are with each and everyone of you. God Bless You All. I wish I could be there with you but know my heart and soul are with each and everyone of you.
Love always and God Bless You,
Your Niece,
Jean Perrin, & Edward Cook
Mike Nyman
October 26, 2009
Dear Jeff and Sara,
So very sorry to hear about your mother. You and the rest of your families witnessed the life of a special person. The proof is how well all of you are in life. She will be missed, but the good memories will last forever. Peace and love to you all.
Peggy Howarth-Numbers
October 26, 2009
Dear Kallenbach Family,
I'm sorry for the lose of your mom.
Your mom was a very kind and gentle person who will be missed dearly by all of you and everyone else who's life she touched. I will keep each one of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Fondly,
Peggy (Howarth) Numbers
I graduated with Craig in '71 from Auburn.
Mark Allen
October 26, 2009
Jeff and Sara,
Very sorry to hear about your mom. I lost my dad last July, and know how hard it can be. Though I never met her, she sounds like a special woman.
Carey Sydow
October 25, 2009
I am so very sorry...a special woman Donna is...and always was.
October 25, 2009
Mike and Family,
If anyone was allowed a second mom, Donna would certainly have filled that shoe. My mom always knew if I wasn't at home I was most likely over at your place. Donna made me (everyone) feel as if they belonged. She had a heart full of Gold. There was always a smile for you. She will be missed by everyone who's life she had touched.
To borrow a few words from a card I received:
May your memories of your mother's love bring you comfort and peace of heart, now and through the days ahead.
All our Love and deepest sympathy.
Ken Hartnett
Jody (Hartnett)Pfannkuche
Leslie (Hartnett)Jones
Bill & Elisabeth Rodgers
October 25, 2009
Dear Dale, Angela & family,
We were sadden to learn of the loss of your mother. You have our deepest sympathies. We will be keeping your family in our prayers.
Craig Kallenbach
October 24, 2009
Don't know of a better mom! It's hard to believe that you're gone, my sweet. How you were able to do what you did for us all will remain a mystery if we really tried to figure it out. Ah, but you'd tell us the REAL secret is LOVE. If you have that, then there's nothing else needed. If you don't have that, you might as well have nothing. Now, you're gone but my love for you lives on and on. In my life you made me so very happy! You'll be the first one I look for in Heaven.
Your loving son, Craig
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