Pamela Gail Stegeman

She was born on July 14, 1949, in Decatur, IL to Joan Thompson and reared by her mother and beloved stepfather, Bernard Bergin. Pam spent many summers with her loving grandmother, Hazel Thompson in Assumption, IL and her aunts, Mary Carr and Opal Bowers.

Pam was a proud 1967 graduate of Bloomington High School, and continued many friendships through the years while planning reunion events. In 1971, she graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in education. After a brief teaching career, she worked in the insurance industry but realized her true calling was nursing. She returned to school graduating from the Mennonite School of Nursing in 1986. After graduation she worked at Mennonite, St Joseph, Brokaw and John Warner Hospitals. Once again, Pam returned to school at Louis University to become a certified school nurse. In 1996, she joined the faculty in the Olympia CUSD #16, where she served as district nurse until her retirement in 2011.

On May 29, 1979, Pam married Terry Stegeman who preceded her in death on Feb. 15, 2014. Terry brought two daughters to their marriage; Robin who passed away in 2000 and Renee of Hernando, FL. They adopted Robin’s son, Jacob, in 2000. Three other grandchildren, Shalyn Lutz, Tyler Lutz and Hannah Sersha survive Pam along with three great-grandchildren, Briley, Harper and Myles. Becoming a mother, grandmother and most recently GG, brought Pam great joy.

Pam had a gregarious and outgoing personality and easily connected with everyone - especially the students who came to her for health reasons, a willing ear to listen and a kind and compassionate word. While working in the Olympia school system, Pam was fortunate to make professional and personal connections with a number of teachers. In retirement the friendships grew deeper, becoming known as the famous “Oly Girls." Pam greatly enjoyed their travels, going to tea rooms and being included in family celebrations.

Longtime friends, Carol and Ron Williams, were also a big part of Pam’s life, often becoming a second home for her as well as Buster, her spoiled Cocker Spaniel.

Not having close family nearby, Pam was blessed to have all these dear friends, especially Lynda Lane and Debbie Brown, who navigated her long illness and supported her throughout this health journey.

Pam is survived by uncles William Carr and Donald Thompson and seven cousins.

Pam will be missed by all who shared her life. A celebration of life will take place in Bloomington at a later date. Service details will be available at www.eastlawnmemorial.com when scheduled.

Memorials may be made to the Mennonite College of Nursing, ℅ ISU Foundation, Campus Box 8000, Normal, IL 61790-8000.