Jeanne lived a life rooted in faith, devoted to family, and dedicated to her community.
Born on September 1, 1930, Jeanne was the daughter of Albert Armato and Nellie (Armato) Bonnell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather, Vernon Bonnell; her beloved husband, Arthur “Ace” Shanyfelt; her daughter, Kathryn Balik; and her brothers, Bruce Bonnell and Delbert Bonnell.
On June 14, 1949, Jeanne married the love of her life, Arthur “Ace” Shanyfelt. Together they shared many happy years, raising their family in Sublette. Their home was a gathering place for family, friends, and neighbors, reflecting the warmth and generosity that defined Jeanne’s life.
Jeanne attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Sublette and later graduated from Mount Saint Clare Academy in Clinton, Iowa. Following graduation, she worked as a bookkeeper for Bonnell Implement, Wayside Press in Mendota, Vinton Silo Company in Mendota, and the Mendota Trouser Factory. She later worked as a teller at Farmers State Bank in Sublette.
Jeanne was deeply involved in the communities she loved, serving as Secretary-Treasurer of the Sublette Fire Protection District for ten years and Secretary-Treasurer of the Utopia Manor Ladies Club for twenty years. Through her years of service, she formed lasting friendships and touched countless lives.
A lifelong resident of Sublette, Jeanne cherished her roots and the close-knit community she proudly called home. Jeanne and Ace spent 21 wonderful years at Woodhaven Lakes, creating treasured memories with family and friends. Following retirement, they enjoyed spending winters in Phoenix, Arizona, while always calling Sublette home.
Jeanne’s greatest joy was bringing people together. She loved hosting family and friends, preparing delicious meals and baked treats, and using her talents as an accomplished seamstress to help celebrate life’s special moments.
She is survived by her children, Jacqueline Smith of Phoenix, Arizona; Nancy (John) Cicchetti of Sublette, Illinois; Rex (Angela) Shanyfelt of Mendota, Illinois; and Natalie (Mark) Leffelman. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, her sister, Sister Martinelle Bonnell, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Those who knew Jeanne will remember her warm smile, generous heart, unwavering faith, and lifelong devotion to her family and community. Though she will be greatly missed, the memories she created and the lives she touched will be treasured forever.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy, Illinois, with a saying of the rosary at 3:30 PM.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 11, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Sublette, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m.
Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Sublette, where Jeanne will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Ace.
