Betty Trudeau

Betty Ann Jaenicke Trudeau, 86, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Riverside Hospital. She was a resident of LaBella Nursing Home, Clifton, formerly of Kankakee, IL and Johnson City, Tn. Betty was born on February 15, 1940, in DuQuoin, Illinois, to Ray and Elizabeth (Hess) Wheatley. In 1985, she married Robert Trudeau in Camden, South Carolina. Robert preceded her in death on January 5, 2025. Betty was a homemaker and secretary before retiring. She enjoyed a variety of activities throughout her life, including playing cards and board games, bowling, cooking and baking, dancing, listening to music, traveling, and walking for exercise. She especially enjoyed spending time with her girlfriends, going out for lunch, and having a glass of Chardonnay. Betty was formerly affiliated with St. Mark United Methodist Church in Kankakee. She was also involved in several clubs and organizations, including Eastern Star, the Red Hat Club, and the Newcomers Club. She leaves behind her loving son, Alan (Kris) Jaenicke; daughters, Catherine Jaenicke (John) Devries and Marie Panozzo; brother, Jerry (Mary Ann) Smith; stepson, Todd (Betty Ann) Trudeau; stepdaughter, Laurie Trudeau; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren and other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Trudeau and former husband, Gordon Jaenicke; father, Ray Wheatley, mother and stepfather Elizabeth (Everett) Smith; brother, Ronald Wheatley, sister-in-law, Louise Wheatley and several aunts and uncles. Betty will be remembered for the time she shared with family and friends, her many interests, and the memories she created throughout her life. Visitation will be held at Jensen Funeral Home of Kankakee on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Pastor Jeff Evans will officiate at 1:00 p.m. A graveside burial will follow at Mound Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made according to the wishes of the family.