Janis L. Brandt, 61, of Kenosha, passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2014, at her home, after a long battle with ALS also known as Lou Gehrigs Disease. Janis donated her brain and spinal cord for further research on ALS. Born in Kenosha on November 28, 1952, she was the daughter of the late George and Dorothy (Zeman) Godlewski. She was a lifelong resident of Kenosha and graduated from Gateway Technical College with a degree in Library Science. On May 11, 1974, she married Mark Brandt in Kenosha. Janis held many jobs throughout her life but her favorite was with Tomorrow’s Future in Antioch as Pre School Teacher Assistant. Janis is survived by her loving husband, Mark of Kenosha; two sons, Christopher (Nicole) Brandt of Menasha, WI, and Jeffrey (Sarah Manning) Brandt of Racine, WI; three grandchildren, Natalie, Katelyn and Jonathan Brandt with a fourth due in September; two brothers, Jim (Sally) Godlewski and Dave (Kathy) Godlewski; and also many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. The family would like to thank the staff at Heartland Hospice, especially, Rachel S., Kathleen, Cindy, Nancy and Gail, for all of the kind and compassionate care they gave Janis. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 23rd, at Proko Funeral Home from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Heartland Hospice or The ALS Association, 1275 K Street NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC, 20005, would be greatly appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Janis’ Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Joyce Glerum Brundage
June 26, 2014
I went to school and worked with Janis. Alphabetically, we spent lots of time in line in school when we were young. We joked about it many times. Janis was one of the nicest people I have had the pleasure to know. Mark, she used to say," I know people look at me and wonder how I got Mark" And I would say it was because she was so sweet! My prayers and thoughts to all of you.
Lynn Lawler
June 23, 2014
I had the pleasure of working with Jan at Shopko for many years and we became good friends. Sadly, we lost touch over the years. I was shocked and saddened to read of her death. Jan was a wonderful person and will be missed. My deepest sympathies to the Brandt family.
Karen Challis
June 23, 2014
I was sadden to hear this news. Jan was a wonderful friend, even if we drifted toward the end. I do remember the great times we had at Gateway. Being in a small class in the Library field brought us, along with Ellen & Sharon together in a sisterhood. In the years to come the craft fairs we went to were a special time for us reminisce. My deepest sympathy to Mark & family.Karen
Lee Michelau
June 22, 2014
Aunt Jan was the 1st person to introduce me to coleus plants! I have a neat memory of when I was in my early teens! I visited Mark and Jan at their home on 55th Street and at that time Jan had all kinds of house plants in their living room! My favorite was her coleus plant and I remember making sure I had a coleus plant sitting on my dresser in my bedroom while I was growing up! Another treasured memory I have of Jan is she graciously offered for me to wear her wedding dress and veil with a long train when I was in my later teens! Joe and I got married in 1983 and I walked down the isle in her wedding dress!! Thank you!! I Love You and you have inspired me with your courage!!
Christopher Brandt
June 22, 2014
I miss you mom. This kids have so many great memories with you. You have a special place in all of our hearts. Love you.