DONNA JANKE

Donna Mae Janke, (Rudie) age 92 of Sheboygan passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, in Hortonville WI.  Donna was born April 3, 1933 in Sheboygan to Norman and Ester Rudie   Donna attended Mapledale grade school and graduated from Central High.  She married Garry Janke on September 6, 1952, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, they were married for 70 years prior to Garry's passing in September 2022. Together they raised four children, Susan, David, Mary and John.

Donna was a self-motivated individual that believed anything was possible.  This was proven at the age of 29 in the midst of raising four children. She enrolled in nursing school which required time away from her family. Never allowing the hurdles of life to interfere, Donna met her goal and received her diploma.  She was employed with Memorial hospital, and later in her career provided private in-home care.  Donna was a dedicated Christian, with a faith that was stronger than any negativity that society could provide.  She truly led by example with her faith and witnessed to others right to the end of her life.  She was a genuine Grandma, mother, sister, friend to all. She was the ultimate cheerleader for everyone and forever encouraging.

Donna's interests were many, and it was one speed, full throttle.  Simply put, if it was important to you , it was important to her and count her in. What a trooper and friend to many.  Her passion beyond family was church and her faith.  She was involved in pretty much anything the church had to offer. Bible class and home bible study. LWML and her “Mite Box” which collected spare change for missions.  Alter Guild, Evangelism committee, and visiting shut ins when time allowed.  

2017 was a difficult year for the family in recognizing that Donna was struggling with the onset of Dementia.  This disease was progressively consuming her, and a change of dwelling was on the horizon.  She was moved into a care facility in Sheboygan that would be able to assist in her care.   A year later both Garry and Donna sold their home in Sheboygan and relocated to a care facility in Hortonville to be closer to family.   The positive is that she looked upon this as a new opportunity.  Her faith was never stronger, as she witnessed to those she encountered, residents and staff.  The impact was undeniable.  Multiple times the question came to mind as to why anyone deserves to struggle with such a brutal disease.  If that question was presented to Donna, her reply would be “It's God's Plan” and she wasn't finished yet.  As time progressed and so did her condition, Donna lost the ability to perform most functions. There was one that remained to the end.  She retained the ability to recognize music, specifically religious songs and hymns.  She knew every word, and if she wasn't able to sing them, she would hum along the best she could.  Seeing the look in her eyes when her favorite songs were on was amazing.  She wasn't able to speak, but the look was fully understood. She was saying Thank you.

Donna is survived by her children David (Sandy) Janke, Mary (Mike) Schutte, John (Cheryl) Janke, and Son in law Marlow Bentdahl.   Seven Grandchildren, and Eight Great Grandchildren.  Donna was preceded in death by her husband Garry, daughter Susan Bentdahl, and Grandson Adam Bentdahl.  A funeral service will take place at 10:30 am on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Good Shepard Lutheran Church, 1614 S. 23rd street, Sheboygan, with the Rev. Christian Gugel officiating.  Family will greet visitors from 9:00 am until the time of service.  Burial will follow at Lutheran Cemetery in Sheboygan. In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established.

The family would like to Thank the care givers at Care Partners in Hortonville, and Heartland Hospice, specifically Crystal, Lori, Jenny, and Chaplain William.  The family would like to ask everyone who ever encounters an individual with Dementia.  Please understand, be patient and extend the hand of compassion.

Mom, you have always been and will always be our hero. Thank you for leading by example, and caring about everyone you encountered.  There is a special place for you in Heaven, it's in the section for those with a caring heart.  We love you mom.