WINNEBAGO — Louise Marie Painter, 85, of Winnebago, died Sunday, Nov. 6 at her home with her family by her side. She was born June 14, 1937 in Ashton, the daughter of Cornelius and Myrtle Elaine (Colby) Gonnerman. She graduated from Winnebago High School in 1955. Louise married Richard William Zimmerman on April 26, 1955. She later married Russell “Russ” Allen Painter on June 8, 1979.   

Louise worked in accounting at Barber-Colman in Rockford. She and Russ owned and operated Nana’s Dinner Bell. During her retirement she enjoyed working at McDonald’s in Winnebago. Louise was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Pecatonica and was actively involved in the Mary and Martha Society. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting, making new born baby hats for the hospitals in Rockford. She enjoyed helping people with various needs.  

Louise is survived by her daughter, Lois (Michael) Virtue; son, Robert “Rob” (Sherri) Zimmerman; grandchildren, Bryan Zimmerman, Charlene (Christopher) Murdakes, Marianne (John) Podraza, Anthony (Michelle) Orlandi, Kaitlin (Sam) Jackson, Kyle Zimmerman; several great-grandchildren; several nephews and nieces; special friends, Ida Bolen and Tom Hazzard.  

Louise is predeceased by her husband, Russ Painter; son, Dale Zimmerman; brother, John Gonnerman; sisters, Pauline Rash, Donna Johnson; twin sister, Lois Westphal.

A celebration of life will be 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 10 at St. John Lutheran Church, 1301 N. Jackson St., Pecatonica.  

Cremation rites accorded. Interment at Twelve Mile Grove Cemetery near Pecatonica. In lieu of flowers a memorial will be established for St. John Lutheran Church in Pecatonica.  

Arrangements by Genandt Funeral Home, 602 N. Elida St., Winnebago. For an online obituary and tributes go to www.genandtfuneralhome.com.