Scott Nordstrom, a cherished teacher at Roanoke-Benson High School in Toluca, Illinois, has tragically passed away at the age of 53. Known for his dedication to education and his vibrant personality, Scott’s death on July 25, 2024, at 6:04 A.M. at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his beloved family, marks a significant loss for his community and all who knew him.
Born on June 29, 1971, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Michael and DeLores Nordstrom, Scott’s life was characterized by a deep commitment to family, education, and community service. He attended Roanoke-Benson Elementary School and graduated from Annawan High School in 1989. Following high school, Scott served his country as a Stinger Missileman in the National Guard, displaying early on his dedication and sense of duty.
Scott’s academic journey continued at Black Hawk Community College and Illinois State University, where he earned degrees in agribusiness and agriculture education. It was during his time at Illinois State University that he met Amy Manthe, who would become his wife on July 15, 1995. Their marriage was blessed with four children: Alex, Linnea, Bryce, and Noah, each of whom brought immense joy to Scott’s life.
Professionally, Scott Nordstrom was a beloved educator for 29 years. Fondly referred to as “Mr. Nordy” or simply “Nord” by his students, he taught at several institutions, including Lincoln High School, Fieldcrest Middle School, and Roanoke-Benson High School, where he served as an agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor. His passion for teaching and his students was evident in every lesson he gave and every event he organized. Scott recently earned a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction, further underscoring his dedication to education and continuous improvement.
Scott’s influence extended beyond the classroom. He was known for his bright, selfless, supportive, and loving personality. He had a unique ability to connect with students and colleagues alike, fostering an environment of encouragement and positivity. His love for agriculture and farming was not only a professional focus but also a personal passion, which he shared eagerly with others. Scott enjoyed hunting, fishing, clerking at auctions, and working for Hatzer & Nordstrom Equipment. His love for the Chicago Cubs and classic TV shows was well-known among his friends and family.
Family was the cornerstone of Scott’s life. He was affectionately known as “Crazy Uncle Scott” at family gatherings, where his enthusiasm and joy for life were infectious. Scott cherished planning family road trips and took immense pride in achieving his goal of visiting all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums. He was a devoted husband to Amy and a loving father to Alex, Linnea, Bryce, and Noah. His guidance and support for his children were unwavering, whether he was coaching their sports events or attending their activities with pride.
Scott is survived by his wife, Amy (Manthe) Nordstrom; his children: Alex Nordstrom, Linnea Nordstrom, Bryce Nordstrom (Ella Goodrich), and Noah Nordstrom; his sister, Kimberly Goodley (Chris Goodley); his brother and best friend, Matthew Nordstrom (Annetta Childs); and his nieces and nephews: Michaela Goodley, Olivia Goodley, Cole Goodley, Anna Nordstrom, and Emma Nordstrom. He is also survived by Ryan Marchand, Ron (Kat) Manthe, Cody (Liz) Manthe, Dustin (Tonja) Specht, Jessie (Luke) Mulberry, Sara (Jacob) Smith, and many great nieces and nephews.
Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and DeLores (Dee) Nordstrom; his paternal grandparents, Bryce and Mary Nordstrom; his maternal grandparents, Carl and Violet Hicks; his Aunt Betty Hicks and Uncle Fred Hicks; and his cousin, Rusty Hicks.
Scott Nordstrom’s passing leaves a significant void in the lives of those who knew him. His contributions to education, his unwavering support for his students and community, and his deep love for his family will be remembered and cherished. The Roanoke-Benson High School community and beyond mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who touched so many lives with his kindness, dedication, and zest for life.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 30, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva, with Pastor Bob Idell officiating. Visitation will be from 3:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, July 29, at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Bishop Hill Cemetery. In honor of Scott’s legacy, memorials may be directed in his name for a scholarship to be established at Roanoke-Benson High School. This scholarship will ensure that Scott’s commitment to education and his passion for agriculture continue to inspire future generations.
In these moments of grief, the community comes together to celebrate Scott Nordstrom’s life, remembering his laughter, his guidance, and his unwavering positivity. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the love he shared so freely. Coach, mentor, teacher, friend, husband, father, and brother—Scott Nordstrom’s many roles were all filled with excellence and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
