Elizabeth "Libby" Van De List (70) of Effingham

Elizabeth “Libby” Teresa (Palo) Van De List, 70, passed away on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at her home in Effingham, surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024, at Christ’s Church in Effingham, with burial at St. Michael Cemetery in Sigel. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday at Christ’s Church. In memory of Libby, memorial donations may be made to Christ’s Church, St. Michael Catholic School, or a Lakeland College horticulture scholarship.

Libby was born on January 28, 1954, in San Bernardino, California, to John Raymond Palo and Margaret Ann (Kelly) Palo. She moved to Illinois in May 1978. Libby worked for TSI Graphics in Effingham for many years and later served as an assistant instructor and test proctor at Lakeland College. She enjoyed playing the piano and had a passion for plants, sharing her love with the horticulture program at Lakeland College. Libby was known far and wide for her outgoing personality, enthusiasm, and incredible ability to make people laugh. She cherished spending time with her family, friends, and especially her beloved bowling girls. Many will remember her cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events and her unique expressions, like “BALLERINA SLIPPERS!” Others will recall her warm greetings at Christ’s Church: “Welcome to Christ’s Church; we’re so glad you’re here!” Libby had a knack for making everyone feel welcome; she either knew you or pretended to! Her sense of humor and ability to brighten a room were unmatched. Above all, Libby was a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, known for her warmth and unwavering support.

Libby is survived by her daughter, Denise (Steve) Wolke of Sigel; son, Keith (Penny) Van De List of Iola; grandchildren Amanda (Paul) Niebrugge, Victoria (Cole) Miller, Steven (Alexis) Wolke, Michael (Lindsey) Wolke, and Zach (Tayler) Wolke; and great-grandchildren Charlotte, Frederick, Warren, and Savannah Niebrugge, Crue, Luke, Liam, and Mick Miller, with two more great-grandbabies on the way.

Libby was preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret Palo, and her brother, Kelly Palo.