Geraldine "Jerri Lou" Schardt, 81, of Belvidere, IL, passed away on March 3, 2026. She was born on December 15, 1944, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the daughter of Elizabeth "Liz" (Kieler) and Gerald Van De Wiel. Jerri Lou was one of 9 children growing up.

Jerri married the love of her life, Eldon "Eldie" Schardt, on May 4, 1964. Together they shared 49 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with three sons. She was a deeply devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and a cherished member of the Belvidere community.

Jerri was a longtime member of the Belvidere Moose Lodge, the VFW, the American Legion, Red Hat Society, and the Grange Hall. She was especially dedicated to volunteering at the American Legion, where she spent countless days assisting with luncheons and formed many dear and lasting friendships.

Jerri Lou had a strong work ethic and was employed by General Mills for many years. She treasured time spent with her loved ones and enjoyed traveling on family adventures, especially trips to California.

She found great joy in nature, tending to her flower garden and watching the birds.

Jerri loved to play cards, especially Euchre. She was a talented quilter and a wonderful cook with a warm and generous spirit. Jerri will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Jerri Lou is survived by her children, Kevin (Denise) Schardt, Timothy Schardt, and Kurt (Olivia) Schardt; Granddaughter, Lindsey and her mom, Lorraine Schardt, and granddaughter, Kate. Her siblings, Rita Wedig, John Van De Wiel, Joan Ramaker, Steve Van De Wiel, Ruth Ann Ausloos, and Elizabeth "Betty" Van De Wiel as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her special friend and dear companion, Tom Morse.

She is welcomed into heaven by her husband, Eldon Schardt, her parents, Elizabeth and Gerald Van De Wiel; brother, David Van De Wiel; sister, Marilyn(Gerry) Berning, as well as numerous in-laws, and close friends.

Jerri Lou's memorial visitation will be Sunday, March 15th at 3pm at Anderson Funeral Home. Located at 218 W. Hurlbut Ave. Belvidere, IL 61008. Memorial service to follow at 5pm. Inurnment will take place privately at a later date.