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Janette Deetjen

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Janette Elizabeth Ross Deetjen, 96, of Menominee, MI passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at her Art Studio/Home. Jan was born on May 1, 1928 in Chicago, IL to Joseph and Grace (Craig) Ross. Jan met her future husband, James Deetjen, at Judson Baptist Church and both attended Chicago’s Austin High School. On September 18, 1948, they were married in Oak Park, IL. They raised their family of five children in Libertyville, IL. Fond memories remain of homemade buttermilk bread, nightly family dinners at 6 pm around the dining room table, and always music playing in the house. Jan was vivacious and engaged in life remaining always curious. She finished her Bachelor’s Degree of Arts, in 1983 at Barat College in Lake Forest, IL with Summa Cum Laude honors. That same year, Jim and Jan moved from Illinois to settle in Menominee, Michigan.

In the last number of years, North Harbor Writers Group was an important and meaningful part of her life. It is difficult to recall all of the many groups Jan was active in. There were BARDS on the Bay (University of WI, Marinette Theater), University classes taken, Art groups formed, Book clubs, Environmental Awareness Events attended, mornings at McDonald’s with friends. The best word which describes Jan’s energy is gobsmacked. Her creativity was her calling, and she was prolific. Days were spent painting, drawing, woodcarving, or writing poems or stories. Much of her artwork and writings are based on her faith in Jesus. She took great interest in collecting books, feathers, leaves, driftwood, rocks and sea glass too. She always had a sketch book handy or clipboard for writing. She was a mentor to aspiring artists of all ages. Jan was open-minded to new ideas and appreciated the whimsical. Jan’s life was a work of art.

Jan was a devoted and long standing member of Bethel Lutheran Church. Regularly attending worship held deep significance to her and brought her much joy. Her congregational life included serving on Council, as well as, caring and encouraging her Church family by participating in many activities over the years.

Being a friend of Bill W. for over 52 years, Jan walked her walk with integrity and was an inspiration to many. She was authentic and always ready to smile and to make new friends.

Jan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 72 years, Jim. Her parents: Joseph Ross, Grace (Craig) Ross, brother, Joe Jr (Infant), and brother, Graham Craig Ross.

Jan, cherished Mother, is survived by their five children: Barbara (Paul) Herzog, Cheryl (Dan) Thuente, Dave (Kim) Deetjen, Lois (Scott) Palmer and Mary (Brian Duda) Deetjen.

Jan, cherished Grandmother to: Carly (David) Ruiz, Katie (Dan Schulenberg) Herzog, Emma (Brandon) Wimer, Nicholas (Katelyn Corcoran) Thuente, Chase (Jessica) Thuente, Mallory (Michael) Bendorf, Marc (Abby) Deetjen, Grace (David) Walder, Jonni (Sam) Deetjen, Jamie (Wren) Priester-Deetjen. She was a cherished Great Grandmother to: James, Billy, Jude, Silas, Leo, Ellie, Josie, Luke, Micah and Rebekah.

Jan will be dearly missed for her sense of humor, her outpouring of love and friendship and her deep faith in God.

Memorial donations in Jan’s name may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church of Menominee, Michigan where she was a member. Services will be held at Bethel Lutheran Church on Thursday, January 23rd. Visitation at 1:00 PM followed by a Service at 3:00 PM.

Cadieu Funeral Home is assisting the Deetjen family with arrangements.

Janette, Deetjen, Obituary