Janice M. (Schmit) Vanderkelen

Janice M. VanderKelen, age 72, of Denmark, died peacefully Sunday, June 5, 2011 at her residence after a long battle with cancer. Janice was born to Ray Schmit and Susan (Landwehr) Schmit on July 28, 1938, in Green Bay. She graduated from Green Bay West High School with the class of 1956. On June 2, 1962 she married Norman VanderKelen at St. Pat’s Parish in Green Bay and just reached 49 wonderful years. Janice and Norman raised their family on their family farm for 41 years and retired in 2003. Janice is survived by her husband, Norman; mother, Susan; 2 sons, 1 daughter and 1 son-in-law: David VanderKelen, Denmark, Mark VanderKelen (fiance Lisa), Denmark, Debbie (Wayne) Wendt, Maribel; 6 grandchildren: Michaela VanderKelen, Rhinelander; Jaclyn, Ashley and Zachary Wendt, Maribel; Aubrey and McCoy Krish, Denmark. Janice was preceded in death by her father, Ray; son, Paul; mother and father-in-law: Norbert and Mabel VanderKelen; sister-in-law: Lu Beyer; and numerous aunts and uncles. Janice enjoyed life to the fullest, including her bus trips to the casinos, Sunday drives, bird watching, keeping her flowerbeds looking beautiful, baking, playing sheepshead with her children, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a member of All Saints Parish and enjoyed volunteering her time there. Family will greet relatives and friends on Wednesday, June 8, from 4-7pm at Knutson-Cotter Funeral Home, Denmark. A private prayer service will be held for Janice at 7:00pm, led by Sister Gerri. Visitation will continue on Thursday, June 9, from 9-10:45am at All Saints Parish. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am, at the church, with Rev. Ron Colombo officiating. Interment in All Saints Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Groteluschen and the entire Green Bay Oncology staff for their support and services the past four years. Also, to Sister Gerri and Father Ron for all the care and compassion shown towards Janice and her family.