Longtime Knox County Nursing Home Cook Wanda May Nordeen Dies at 81

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Wanda May Nordeen, a longtime head cook at the Knox County Nursing Home in Galesburg, Illinois, passed away on February 18, 2026 at the age of 81. Nordeen worked at the nursing home for over 20 years and was known for her dedication to providing quality meals for the residents. She is survived by her two sons, one daughter, one stepson, eight grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Nordeen's passing marks the end of an era for the Knox County Nursing Home, where she was a fixture for over two decades. Her commitment to her work and the residents she served highlights the important role that dedicated staff play in providing care and comfort to the elderly and infirm in the community.

The details

Wanda May Nordeen was born on October 24, 1944 in Canton, Illinois to Forrest Preston and Zona Marie (Irwin) Wallace. She worked as the head cook at the Knox County Nursing Home for over 20 years before retiring. Nordeen is survived by her two sons, one daughter, one stepson, eight grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. She enjoyed the simple things in life, such as reading, spending time with family and friends, and her frequent lunches with her friends.

• Wanda May Nordeen passed away on February 18, 2026 at 12:15 p.m.
• Nordeen worked as the head cook at the Knox County Nursing Home for over 20 years before retiring.