Deana Kay DeRoo

Deana Kay DeRoo, 76, of Hillsdale, passed away Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at her home.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated, and a private family service will be 2:00pm Sunday, December 10, 2023  at Church of the Cross Methodist in Port Byron. The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life in honor of Deana at 2:00PM January 21, 2024 at the American Legion in East Moline. In lieu of flowers or gifts please make memorials to QC PAWS.

Deana was born April 8, 1947, in Moline, IL, the daughter of William H. and Irene V.J. Stout Jones. She worked at Riverstone (Moline Consumers) for over 25 years, retiring in 2014. Deana was an active member of NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) for many years. Since retirement, Deana enjoyed simple country living and spent her time with family and friends. She looked forward to attending her ceramics group in Hillsdale and Church of the Cross United Methodist on Sundays. An ideal day for Deana would include throwing on her pink camo ball cap and hopping on the riding lawn mower, tending to her flowers, working in her garden or canning/freezing produce, spoiling her horses with cookie treats, taking her beagle dogs for rides in the gator around the property, and ending the day with her cat on her lap watching Monk.

In her younger years, Deana was able to travel to many beautiful locations around the United States, and participated in several outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, boating and golf. Deana was also known to try her luck at various casinos from time to time, and never missed an opportunity to stop at a flea market or estate sales to look for those must have treasures. While still employed, Deana loved to clothing shop, calling it her therapy, and truly enjoyed being able to dress with style and class.

Deana's most noteworthy attribute was her kind heart. Any time she came across someone in need she was there to help them out. Not only did she help family and friends, but she also loved animals and rescued many strays and shelter animals throughout her lifetime that were not otherwise likely to be adopted.

Survivors include her companion of 22 years Kenny Dudley; daughter Deanna L. DeRoo (Steve); grandchildren Brandon J. VanHerzeele and Jayce D. VanHerzeele (Kayla); great grandson Noah L. VanHerzeele; sister Darla R. Rist; sister-in-law Linda Jones and Kenny’s children Carrie Hemle (Doug) and daughter Evvy, Molly (Robert) Lighthall and son Josh.

Deana was preceded in death by her parents, son Daniel W. DeRoo, and a brother David Jones.