Janice Thurs
Janice “Jan” M. Thurs, 79, Edgar, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, at U.W. Hospital, Madison.
She was born May 13, 1942, in Marathon, daughter of the late Anton and Clara (Skrzypchak) Volhard. On Feb. 10, 1962, she married Anthony “Tony” Thurs, the love of her life, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon.
For many years Jan worked at Stettin Mutual Insurance Company, Boehm Insurance Company and the Village of Edgar. Her strong work ethic and upbeat attitude also helped Tony with the family ginseng farm. Jan also enjoyed being a girl scout leader and was the co-owner of TJ’s Youth Center in Edgar.
Jan showed us all that you can raise a family, work hard, play hard, and give back to your community. And she did it all so elegantly, seemingly effortlessly and with much joy. When Jan said “YOLO” as she often did, she meant it.
Living her best life in retirement, Jan enjoyed traveling, bowling, going to the Swim Center, crocheting, knitting, crafting and canning her famous pickles. And every year was highlighted by baking and decorating Christmas cookies with her beloved grandchildren.
Jan also enjoyed going to the “Shack” on Lake Nokomis, fishing, and camping with family and friends at her favorite place, Rock Dam. Above all Jan absolutely cherished time with her family, especially with her grandchildren.
Loved by all who met her, Jan exuded beauty and joy inside and out. Her dazzling smile was warm, welcoming and full of fun. The blessed memories she created with friends and family will be cherished forever.
Survivors include her husband, Tony Thurs of Edgar; her children: David (Sue) Thurs of Edgar, Connie (Brad) Hanson of St. Mary’s Point, Minn., Tammy (Jim) Anderson of Wausau and Jamie (Luke) Koehler of Edgar; her grandchildren: Caley (Jon) Stahel, Tessa Thurs, Hannah Olson, Jaron Olson, Cole and Garrett Hanson, Jacee (Ben Kellner) Anderson, Justin and Julia Anderson, Malana, Brooks and Taya Koehler; and her great-grandchildren: Kingstyn, Adley and Mick Stahel; her sister, Donna (Eugene) Stahel of Wausau; and many nieces and nephews.
Jan was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather, Rueben Ahlquist; and a brother-in-law, Fred Otto.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar. The Rev. Alan Wierzba will preside. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and again on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service, all at the church. There will be a parish rosary service at 7 p.m. Thursday evening at the church. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Jan’s name. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Paid obituary 114486
