JANET RUNNERSTROM
November 01, 1951 - November 01, 2023
Obituary
Beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend Janet L. (Weersma) Runnerstrom of Appleton passed away on her 72nd birthday, November 1, 2023 after a valiant battle with cancer. A fighter to the end, she was surrounded with love by her family and dear friends when she departed from her earthly life and onto her next grand adventure.
Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1951, Jan married James Runnerstrom in 1972 and raised their two sons in Waukegan, Illinois. After moving to Wisconsin, they were blessed with six grandchildren who they loved dearly. Jan lost James in 2019 after 46 years of marriage.
Jan was a talented nurse who gave countless patients expert care throughout her career. Her calm and gentle demeanor was paired with admirable strength. Before she retired, Jan was a nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Appleton where she was part of a second family of caregivers. It was this second family who cared for Jan in her final days, giving her loved ones great comfort in the end.
A dancer, poet, and selfless volunteer for people in need, Jan loved a good book with her beloved dog Zoey by her side. She was also a road warrior, always up for a weekend adventure, a music festival, or fishing trip. She passed her wicked sense of humor down to her children and grandchildren, and they spent countless moments enjoying a good chuckle together. She will be tremendously missed by all who loved her.
Janet was preceded in death by her husband James Runnerstrom, parents Jane and Hank Weersma, and brothers Brett and John Weersma. She is survived by sons Scott (Sherry) Runnerstrom and Keith (Emily) Runnerstrom, and six grandchildren - Milo, Jorgie Jack, Gavin, Finley and Chesney. She is also survived by her siblings Susan Gilbert, Margaret Stager, Mark Weersma, Nancy von Neupert, and Jeff Weersma.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the St. Elizabeth Hospital ICU nurses and staff for the exceptional love and care they gave Jan in the final stages of her illness.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the Menasha Senior Center, Feed America, or to any Fox River Valley homeless shelter in Janet's name.