Janet M. Ross

Janet M. Ross, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on January 18, 2024, in Greendale, WI. Born on March 25, 1938, in Chicago, IL, Janet's vibrant spirit and compassionate nature touched everyone she met throughout her remarkable 85 years of life.

Janet's journey began as a cherished daughter where she grew up nurturing the values of family and faith that would define her life. She found her lifelong partner in William “Bill” Ross, and together they shared a loving marriage of 56 years, filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering support for each other until William's passing.

A devoted mother, Janet's love knew no bounds. She raised five wonderful children: Steven (Julie), Michael (Tami), Robert Sr. (Jean), Jeffrey (Linda), and Patti Dehner. Her nurturing heart also extended to her role as a cherished grandma to Steven (Taryn), Anna (Shane), Anthony (Alexandra), Nicholas (Karli), Robert Jr. (Tiffany), Joseph (Christie), Joshua (Nicole), Jacob, Nicholas (Kaila), Derek, Jessica (Christopher), and Samantha. Her great-grandchildren, Maverick, Luca, Walker, Joshua, Jace, Kylie, Lyla, Elizabeth, Edward, Robert III, Felix, Abigail, and Mackenzie, will forever cherish the memories and the love she shared with them.

Janet's siblings and extended family were an integral part of her life. She is survived by her dear sister Carol Paasch, brother Thomas (Jeanette) Seefeldt, and her brother-in-law Cleon (Pauline) Ross, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who were all dear to her heart.

Professionally, Janet dedicated over 60 years of service to Aurora St. Luke's Hospital, where her compassion and commitment to care left a lasting impact on the community. Her work ethic and generosity were paralleled by her involvement with Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Alongside her beloved Bill, Janet was a long-time member who participated in extensive volunteer work, including international travel with the church choir, touching lives far beyond her local community.

Janet's zest for life was evident in her many interests and hobbies. She and Bill were an inseparable pair on the square dance floor, where they twirled and stepped their way into the hearts of many. Together, they shared a passion for traveling the world with friends, creating a tapestry of memories that spanned continents. In a testament to her love for family, Janet and Bill took each of their grandchildren on a vacation of their choice, ensuring a legacy of cherished moments and personal attention that each grandchild will carry with them.

Her hands were rarely still, as Janet possessed a remarkable talent for knitting, crafting a special baby blanket for each new life welcomed into the family. These blankets are treasured heirlooms, wrapped in the warmth of her love.

Janet's life was a living example of generosity, adventure, and faith. Her faith-filled spirit guided her through life's challenges and triumphs, and her adventurous soul inspired those around her to explore and cherish the world's beauty. Her generosity extended not only to her family and friends but also to the countless lives she touched through her work and volunteer service.

As we say goodbye to Janet M. Ross, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire. Her memory will be held in the hearts of those who knew her as a testament to a life well spent in the joyful pursuit of helping and nurturing others. Janet's radiant smile, boundless energy, and loving nature will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the lives she has shaped and the love she has given.

Visitation will be held at Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church (8424 W. Center St., Milwaukee) on Friday January 26th from 11AM-12:45PM. Funeral Service at 1PM. Private family burial at Arlington Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the Alzheimer's Association.