Gloria M Eklund

Princeton - Gloria May Eklund, née Peterzén, of Princeton, Illinois, passed peacefully into eternal life on May 13, 2026, at Manor Court in Princeton. She was 96 years old. Gloria was born on May 1, 1930, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Assar and Aina (Carlmark) Peterzén, who immigrated to the United States from Kisa, Sweden, in 1922. She was raised in Knoxville, Illinois, where her lifelong love of learning and service first took root. A gifted student, Gloria graduated as valedictorian of the Knoxville High School Class of 1948. She continued her education at Illinois State University, earning her teaching degree in 1952. Teaching was both Gloria's profession and her calling. Over the years, she taught physical education and English in schools in Knoxville, Bloomington, Manito, and Princeton, Illinois. She inspired generations of students with her intelligence, grace, and steady encouragement, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. While in junior high school, Gloria met the love of her life, Donald Eklund. Their enduring love story began in youth and blossomed into a remarkable marriage spanning 72 years after they wed on April 6, 1952. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, devotion, and kindness until Donald's passing in 2025. Gloria was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children: Michael (Adele) Eklund of Glendale, Wisconsin; Julie Schmitt of Grand Prairie, Texas; David (Jeanine) Eklund of Naples, Florida; and Barbara (Vincent) Marella of Virginia Beach, Virginia. She also leaves behind 11 beloved grandchildren and 8 cherished great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ellsworth Peterzén, and his wife, Jane; and her sister, Barbara Bennett, and her husband, Orrin. A faithful member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Princeton, Gloria lived her life with quiet faith, humility, and compassion. She treasured family gatherings, education, reading, and her Swedish heritage, and she carried herself with warmth and dignity throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, the Princeton Public Library, or the Donald and Gloria Eklund Endowed Scholarship Fund at Illinois State University. A celebration of Gloria's life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Gloria M Eklund

May 1, 1930 - May 13, 2026