The earth lost a kind and beautiful soul. Jan Louise (Turner) Atkinson died peacefully at her home on May 26, 2024, in Wittenberg, at the age of 72.
A beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, mother-in-law and friend, Jan’s life was filled with many happy moments with the people she loved. Known particularly well for her kindness, generous spirit and tenacity, she spread love and light to many.
Jan is survived by her daughters, Ashley (Tyler) Hegewald and Nelli (Austin) Williams; her four beloved grandchildren, Grace, Mason, Evelyn and Morgan; her brother, Judd (Shawn) Turner; and two nieces, Katie Widman and Dawn (Tom) Ramerth.
She was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Luke.
Jan was born on March 2, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Elvin “Gus” Edward Turner and Louise Helen Turner. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High in 1970 and continued her education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville with a degree in education, later earning her master’s degree from UW-Oshkosh.
Beginning in 1986, Jan and her two daughters called Wittenberg home. Jan became the librarian at Birnamwood School and Public Library. She continued there for 30 years, inspiring thousands of kids to love reading, starting the beloved Accelerated Reader program and successfully managed one of the only public/school libraries in the state - a model for other schools across the nation.
Her family remembers her as an incredibly patient and loving mom and grandma, and dear friend to many. She was always their biggest cheerleader, offering endless words of support and kindness whenever it was needed and frequently encouraging family adventures to make lasting memories for all — from the family cottage on the Mississippi to Alaska, and most recently, to Costa Rica. The grandchildren will remember her love of fishing, swimming, traveling, crafting, moose-sighting and the thousands of books she’s read to them. She will be greatly missed.
In addition, Jan was very creative and had many talents. She loved to walk around town, getting her exercise. She was skilled at sewing, made incredible homemade bread, jam and dried herbs, and had a beautiful garden she enjoyed spending time in. She loved to fish, and one of her happiest places was fishing for bluegills with family and friends on her beloved Mississippi.
She loved giving back to her community through volunteering with the retired teachers network and making special gifts for family and friends. She loved going to the “Y” and being part of the amazing group of cancer survivors in the LiveStrong program. She lived her life with many mottos, including “Find something to celebrate every day” and “Because I can!”
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on June 20, 2024, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Wittenberg, with a luncheon to follow. Pastors Peter Gunderson and Nick Hopman will officiate the ceremony. Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Jan’s life.
Schmidt and Schulta Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at SchmidtSchulta.com.
In lieu of cut flowers, please consider a contribution to a memorial scholarship fund or flower bulbs so the family can plant them in their gardens to remember Jan. The family would like to thank the cancer care team at Weston Marshfield Clinic for their care throughout her journey.
Jan L. Atkinson
