Mary Tillema, 76, of Belvidere, Illinois, died peacefully, April 4, 2020. She was born July 8, 1943 in Randolph, Wisconsin, the daughter of Hugh and Theresa (Arndt) Roberts. She married her sweetheart, Arnold "Arnie" Tillema on May 2, 1964, in Randolph. Mary attended business college and was a small business owner.Her faith was sharedat First United Methodist Church andshewas a member of United Methodist Women's Club Ester Circle.

Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. Mary loved watching her children and grandchildren perform in sports or the arts. She was always there to support their individual endeavors. She enjoyed cooking and baking. Her favorite moments wereshared with her family while hosting holiday meals. Mary was recognized as a member of Special Olympics Illinois Outstanding Family and traveled to China to watch her son participate in the Special Olympics World Games. She also enjoyed reading and crossword puzzles.

Mary is loved and will be dearly missed by her husband,Arnie; daughter, Lynne (Greg) Panzella; sons, Barry Tillema, Mark (Jenny) Tillema, Randy (Jessica) Tillema and Keith Tillema; sisters, Arlys Omen, Joanne Gilbertson, Muriel Jovle, Cynthia (Al) Nehring, Debra (Jim) Syens; brothers, Hugh (Jane) Roberts and Dana (Judy) Roberts; grandchildren, Grant andBrycePanzella,Karli, Sydney and Sophie Tillema, JosephineandGenevieve Tillema, andAnnlynneand Katlynne Tillema; special friend, Sally Stegemann; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, and brothers, Earl and Maurice Roberts.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at First United Methodist Church, 610 Bonus Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008. Reverend Jim Bell will officiate.Inlieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Special Olympics Rockford SO at 1524 Bruner Street, Rockford, IL 61103. Arrangements by Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services. To light a candle or write a memory, please visitwww.AndersonFCS.com.