Eileen Merle Pedersen

She was pre-deceased by her husband of forty-eight years, Ivan Richard Pedersen. Her memory will be cherished by her children: Chris Ivan Pedersen of Mission Viejo, California, and Edie Leanne Wasserberg and son-in-law, Jerry Wasserberg, of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Eileen also has two grandchildren, Jesse Joseph Wasserberg and David Allen Wasserberg. She was beloved by her granddaughters-in-law, Virginia Wasserberg and Mary Wasserberg. Eileen greatly loved her great- grandchildren, Joseph David Wasserberg, and Olivia Anne Wasserberg.

Eileen is survived by her two sisters, Berenice Edith Zachara, and Virginia Hope Nieman, and brother-in-law, Paul Joseph Zachara, and sister-in-laws, Suzanne Martens, and Emma Louis Martens. She is pre-deceased by brothers, Kenny Day Martens, Norman Day Martens, and Bill Day Martens, and sister-in-law, Mae Agnes Martens.

Eileen was born in Chicago, Illinois. Eileen married in 1948 in Chicago to the handsome, Marine veteran, 'Pete' Pedersen. She worked as a hairdresser for many years until, moving to Wisconsin, where Pete and Eileen became caretakers at Camp Awana, a camp dedicated to introducing boys and girls to Jesus Christ. They were instrumental in changing young lives for eternity and building relationships that would last a lifetime.

Eileen and Pete retired to Phoenix, Arizona, where they lived until Pete's death. Eileen then moved to Virginia Beach in 2002, to live with her daughter and son-in-law.

Eileen's life was marked by her generosity, love, humor and gratitude. She loved the Lord with all her heart, and loved her family without measure. She will be missed more than words can express, but her life will continue to inspire her many friends, family and loved ones today and forever.

Visitation will be Monday July 2 from 4-8 pm at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St ( corner of Northwest Hwy/ Rt 14 and Rand Rd) DesPlaines. Funeral service will be Tuesday July 3,at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Internment Ridgewood Memorial Park. For information please call 815-824-5155 or visit www.oehlerfuneralhome.com