Lynne M. (Dudek) Grimson

Lynne M. (Dudek) Grimson, 62, passed away on Monday, March 21, 2022 at her home in Peoria. She was born in Chicago on March 13, 1960, to Chester and Lorraine (Shramek) Dudek. She married Thomas W. Cardwell on March 8, 1986, and they later divorced. She married Robert Grimson in East Peoria on Sept. 27, 2014. Lynne is survived by her beloved husband Robert of Peoria, children, Alexandra E. Mechling (Cody L. Larson) of Canton, and John S. Cardwell of Chicago, stepchildren, Melissa J. Diggle (Benjamin) of Peoria and William E. King Jr. of Peoria, grandchildren, Liam E. Mechling, Victoria G. Mechling, and one grandbaby on the way, sisters, Judy Harrison (David) of Mission Viejo, CA and Claudia Manley (Noel) of Darien, and a number of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and stepdaughter, Katherine King. Lynne attended Morton West High School, Morton Junior College, and Columbia College. She received her bachelor’s degree in Radio/TV Broadcasting from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and her master’s degree in Communications from University of Illinois Springfield. She also earned an associate’s degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling at Illinois Central College. She was a radio news broadcaster for WXCL and later for WCBU, worked in public relations and marketing for Peoria District 150 and the Peoria Housing Authority, and as a sales associate at Office Max. She recently volunteered for JOLT Harm Reduction and lit up when she talked about it. There was a special place in her heart for those struggling and in need. Music and theatre brought her immense joy. One of her favorite quotes was “Theatre … glorious theatre. It creates family for all kinds of orphans.” She was active with Morton Civic Chorus, Peoria Players and Corn Stock Theatre. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, baking, and sewing. Most of all, she cherished time spent with her family. Cremation rites have been accorded and funeral will be 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 30, at Imago Dei Church in Peoria. Pastors Carole Hoke, Lauren Padgett and Melinda Sparks will officiate. A memorial visitation will be held at the church an hour before services. Memorial donations may be made to JOLT, Corn Stock Theatre or Peoria Players. Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements and condolences may be left at www.Schmidt-Haller.com.

Lynne M. (Dudek) Grimson

March 13, 1960 - March 21, 2022