Obituary for Joanne E. Nordie
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joanne E. Nordie on October 20, 2024, at the age of 90, surrounded by her loving family at Goldwater Care Facility in Spring Valley, IL.
Joanne was born on April 21, 1934, to Dorothy (Boshell) Bieneman-McKinnon and William Bieneman. She was the beloved wife of the late Frank Nordie, whom she married on September 31, 1950, in Stone Park, IL. They had two daughters, Connie, and Cindy. Together, they built a life rich in family, friendship, and legacy.
Joanne and Frank moved to Utica, IL, where for over 40 years they owned and operated the Starved Rock Gateway Motel, as well as a series of ventures at the iconic 4 corners of Route 6 and Route 178. Initially a bar and restaurant, their business evolved to become Second Look Antiques, a cherished antiques store that quickly became a well-known stop. Joanne worked tirelessly, running the motel by day and bringing her vision to the store, which included a summer flea market that brought joy to countless visitors. Joanne, Frank, Cindy, and her grandchildren proudly represented their family in parades, often with their treasured 1927 truck adorned in Joanne’s decorative flair. After Frank's passing in 1996, Joanne continued her passion for antiques at Second Look Shabby to Sheek Antiques in downtown Utica, where she was indeed the "BOSS" behind the counter for 16 years. Her vibrant personality, charm, humor, and boundless generosity drew people to her from all walks of life, including dignitaries from around the world. Joanne had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, and her quick wit, kind heart, and boundless charm endeared her to the entire community. She was as sassy as she was classy, known for her hair bows, impeccable style, and that signature sparkle in her eye. For her family, Joanne was the strong, loving "queen" who always had a way of putting you in your place with grace. Joanne was a dedicated member of the Utica Businessman’s Association, an enthusiastic "Red Hatter," and loved socializing with her friends in the Women of Utica’s (Wou-Wou) club. A collector of all things shiny, Joanne’s love for Miss Piggy, jewelry, tins, and impeccable organization gave her home a warmth and charm that was uniquely hers. She had a green thumb and a passion for planting flowers and trees, a legacy that her family carries forward.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; her parents; her brothers, William “Gordon” Bieneman, and Kenneth “Moe” Bieneman; her daughter, Cindy Nordie-Ricci; and granddaughter Tracy Jo Ricci. Joanne is survived by her daughter Connie Nordie-Miller; grandchildren Lisa (Jerry) Comer, Michael (Jeanette) Miller, and Wayne Miller; and her great-grandchildren Marly Dowler, Madison Comer, Richard “Bear” Munn, Jerry “JJ” Comer, and Taylor Miller, along with cherished grand-dogs and a lifetime of loving memories.
Her family will honor her life with a Celebration of Life event at the Utica Community Hall in Utica, IL, on Saturday, December 7th, 2024, from 1 pm to 3 pm. Cremation rites have been accorded with assistance from Burgess Funeral Home. Joanne will be missed but never forgotten, a pillar of her community and a beacon of strength, humor, and style. Her life was filled with love, laughter, and a legacy that will continue to bloom in the lives of those she touched.
To plant a tree in memory of Joanne E. Nordie, visit the Tribute Store.
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