Jeanne E. Salm

Jeanne Elizabeth (Seaberg) Salm, 95, Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. She was a Rockford native, born to Walter and Genevieve (O’Rourke) Seaberg on July 22, 1929. She married Vincent “Mike” A. Salm in Rockford on June 18, 1955.

Jeanne’s life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to family, friends, and faith. She left a little sparkle wherever she went, spreading joy with her vibrant spirit and boundless zest for life.

As a young girl, Jeanne contracted polio, an experience that helped shape her love for reading and her deep sense of empathy. She graduated from Muldoon in 1947, surrounded by a close-knit group of girlfriends who remained lifelong friends. For over 70 years, they gathered monthly to play bridge well into their 90s. Jeanne’s friendships were enduring, built on a foundation of trust, laughter, and shared memories.

Her quick wit and sense of humor were infectious. Jeanne's humility and infectious laughter drew people in, making everyone feel seen and appreciated. She always showed up for those in need, offering her support and love without hesitation. Life never happened to Jeanne; she made life happen.

This joyful approach to life extended into her marriage and motherhood. Jeanne met the love of her life while working at Catholic Charities. Together, with laughter and unwavering love, they raised eight children until his passing in 1983. Jeanne’s wisdom and ability to see value in every situation allowed her to guide her strong-willed children with grace. She embraced their individuality, loving them unconditionally for their unique gifts.

Although not an athlete herself, Jeanne supported her children in their activities, attending countless games and events. She became a passionate fan of the Packers and Milwaukee Bucks, proudly cheering from the bleachers. As her family grew, Jeanne remained actively involved in the lives of her grandchildren, always present and engaged.

Throughout her life, Jeanne’s faith was her anchor. She believed deeply in service to others. Whether it was through her work at Catholic Charities, organizing food deliveries for the poor, providing housing for unwed mothers, or transporting the elderly to appointments, she always found a way to help. Her door was always open to neighbors, friends, and relatives in need. She delivered the Eucharist to shut-ins, believing that if there was a need, and she had the means, then it was her calling to help.

As a founding member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church and an active participant in the Ladies of St. Bernadette, Jeanne’s faith remained at the center of her life. She remained deeply involved in the church community, especially during the years her children attended St. Bernadette School, and beyond.

Jeanne had a deep love for travel, exploration, painting, reading, knitting, sewing, and crafting. Her creative pursuits enriched her life, and she found joy in each of them.

Her life was a beautiful example of love—love for her family, her faith, and the world around her. Jeanne’s love of life was inspiring, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She survived by her children, Michael (Claudia Cooper-Salm) Salm, Martha (Mike) Runyan, Peter (Mary Jo Guglielmi) Salm, Mary Pat (John) Pike, Andrew (Pam) Salm, Colette (Derek) Schmid, and Maggie (Mike) Moore; her several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and her sister, Judy Schreiber. She is preceded by her husband, Vincent “Mike” A. Salm; her son, Tim Salm; her parents; and her two sisters, Mary Jane Olson and Joy McNulty.

 In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Catholic Charities.

 Jeanne's visitation will be on Saturday, March 8th, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 3910 N Rockton Avenue, Rockford, IL 61103. A funeral Mass will follow at 10:30am at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Avenue, Rockford IL, 61103. A luncheon will take place to follow at Nunzios 5800 N 2nd Street, Loves Park, IL 61111. Cremation rites have been accorded. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude to River Bluff Nursing Home for their care of Jeanne.