Jan grew up on the East Side of St. Paul with her twin sister, Joan, and older brother, Dale. Family was at the heart of her childhood. She loved spending time with cousins, visiting relatives’ farms, caring for animals, and gathering with her large extended family for holidays. Those early experiences helped shape her lifelong love of animals, nature, and close-knit relationships.

After high school, Jan began a career with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, where she worked in hunter education as an assistant to wildlife managers. A devoted animal lover, she found the work especially meaningful and also spent many years working in the DNR Building at the Minnesota State Fair.

Jan married at 19 and raised three daughters—Cheri, Sandi, and Shelly—on the East Side of St. Paul. She created a home where neighborhood children always felt welcome, whether they were looking for something fun to do or gathering to hear stories. Reading was an important part of family life, and Jan fondly remembers sharing Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden books with her daughters.

Later in life, Jan enjoyed a wonderful 15-year relationship with Howie, whom she describes as the love of her life. Together they enjoyed fishing, dancing at the Moose Lodge, fish fries, and trips to the casino. She treasures those years and continues to hold those memories close.

Today, Jan enjoys keeping her door open so neighbors can stop by for a chat. She would love a companion with a good sense of humor who enjoys laughing, playing cribbage, and talking about animals, gardening, and nature. Her Christian faith is an important source of comfort, and she often sings favorite hymns to herself, finding strength and peace in the music. She wants you to know that she does not preach to others. Due to mobility issues, she would prefer visits to take place in her cozy room.