Janice L. Niedzwiecki

Janice L. Niedzwiecki, 78, of Rockford, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Jan was born October 7, 1947, in LaSalle, Illinois, the daughter of Stanley and Sophie Rose (Peterlin) Wallis. She married Terry W. Niedzwiecki on June 22, 1968, at St. Valentine’s Catholic Church in Peru, Illinois.

Jan received her secretarial major associate’s degree from Midstate College of Commerce, Peoria, IL, in 1966. She later worked as a record specialist at Northern Illinois University in the graduate department for many years until her retirement.

Jan was dedicated to her faith and was a longtime member of St. Rita Catholic Church in Rockford. Above all else, her family was at the center of her world. Jan was especially proud of her grandchildren as she loved to attend their many sporting events and cheer them on. She found joy in reading, hiking, dancing, and had a great appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

Jan is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, Terry Niedzwiecki; children, Lisa (Scott) Mellentine, Chrissy Niedzwiecki-Preston, and Scott (Kristi) Niedzwiecki; grandchildren, Garrett (Mackenzie) Mellentine, Dalton Mellentine, Lauren Mellentine, William Niedzwiecki, Owen Niedzwiecki, Logan Preston, and Amber Tomasino; great grandchildren, Addison Tomasino, Anthony Tomasino, Baby Mellentine on the way and one sister-in-law, Beverly Wallis. She is predeceased by her parents; brothers, Stan and John Wallis and many dear friends from LaSalle-Peru High School Class of 1965.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Jan’s name to the LaSalle Peru Foundation, 541 Chartres St. LaSalle, IL 61301.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford IL, 61108. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Dr, Rockford Il, 61108.

Share memories and condolences online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.