Janice Laurel (Davis) Schroeder, 49, of Kenosha, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 11, 2017, at Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in Great Lakes, IL. Born in Petoskey, MI, on November 10, 1967, she was the daughter of the late Rev. Oliver and Nina (Moss) Davis. Janice received her Bachelor’s degree from Alma College and went on to receive her Master’s from the University of Illinois-Springfield. Janice began her career on Active Duty with the US Navy as a journalist stationed at Naval Base Great Lakes, IL. Following her military service to her country, she held positions with the State of Wisconsin and the City of Kenosha. She graduated from the Leadership Kenosha program. Janice most recently served as a civilian Department of Defense outreach and special programs coordinator located at Great Lakes Naval Base with Headquarters 3rd Brigade Army ROTC. On October 20, 2001, Janice married Kenneth A. Schroeder at Kenosha Bible Church, where she was a member. Janice was an adjunct professor with the College of Lake County teaching political science. She often volunteered to work the polls in the City of Kenosha during elections. Jan enjoyed reading, listening to 80's music, boating, movies, and the theatre. She was a loyal Michigan State football and basketball fan, Detroit Tigers, and Chicago Cubs baseball fan. Jan loved to sing the old hymns for their message of faith in God. Moreover, her family, friends, and pets meant everything to her. Surviving Janice is her beloved husband, Kenneth Schroeder of Kenosha; two sons, Christopher Schroeder and Gregory (Melissa) Schroeder, both of Kenosha; three brothers, James (Diane) Davis of Orlando, FL, John (Leslie) Davis of Fort Wayne, IN, and Paul (Cheryl) Davis of St. Louis, MI; and two sisters, Ann (John) Shaver of Indianapolis, IN, and Joy (Cecil) Martin of Nashville, IN. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 18th, at Proko Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 19th, at Kenosha Bible Church, 5405-67th Street, at 10:00 a.m. followed by full military honors. Interment will be held at a later date in Michigan. Donations in her memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.orgProko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Janice’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
UIUC Army ROTC Battalion
May 18, 2017
To the Family of Jan Schroeder. With our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. We truly will miss her cheerful voice over the phone when she helped us with making our battalion look great over social media.We hope that your good memories of Jan will help you through the days ahead. May God bless you and keep you. The Cadre, Staff and Cadets of the Fighting Illini Battalion
Rich and Linda Schultz
May 17, 2017
Ken, we were so sorry to hear of Jan's passing. We're sorry we can't be there to express our condolences in person. Your whole family is in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. With love and sympathy, Rich and Linda
Nicole Gulatz
May 15, 2017
It broke my heart to see this news today. So unexpected, so sad. Jan hired me as an intern with the City of Kenosha in mid-2000s, where I worked for three consecutive summers for her in the Public Works Department. During that time, I got to know her for being an incredibly kind, caring and thoughtful boss. She was so encouraging and supportive of me very early in my career - which like hers started with an opportunity in Washington DC. Years later as we kept in touch from time to time, I was so glad to see her following her love of politics and government by taking and teaching classes. She continued to inspire me and others. Ken, Chris, Greg and family, my deepest sympathies to you. Jan surely touched many lives in her time with us.
Anita Weier
May 15, 2017
I am sorry to hear that Jan is no longer with us. She was a very kind person who nurtured connections and realized the importance of friendship. I treasure our conversations and her notes over the years since we got to know each other through Emerge Wisconsin.
Sharon Krewson
May 15, 2017
Dear Ken and family, my deepest sympathies, prayers and thoughts at this most difficult time. Jan was a great friend and we worked together on many projects at the City. Gone way to soon 💔 But remember the great times and memories you shared. Always in your heart. Hugs!Shari
Kristin Brown
May 14, 2017
Dear Ken, Greg & Chris, My very deepest sympathies. Jan was my supervisor, mentor and friend. She was very generous and encouraging to those who worked with her. She had a beautiful and kind heart. I am grateful to have known her for so many reasons. She will always be in heart and memories. She left our lives far too soon but she is in heaven with her beloved parents.
Noelle Joers-Yanisch
May 14, 2017
Ken - I am so sorry to hear about Jan. I knew her through Emerge. We were classmates. She was an awesome person. She was always so positive and happy. I am fortunate to have known her. She touched many lives. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Tara Johnson
May 14, 2017
Ken,I am so very sorry to learn off Jan's passing! I will be sure to pass the news on the to her Emerge sisters as well who will be as stunned and saddened as I am. I am so sorry for your loss. Jan was such a great lady! Her smarts, sense of humor and compassion for others is what I will remember most about her. That, and the hot air brush she gave me as a joke a few years ago. :) May she rest in peace!
Richard A. Bosanko
May 13, 2017
Ken & Family: On behalf of the Kenosha Fire Department family, both active and retired members, our sincere sympathy on your loss of Jan. We share in your sorrow. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you many fond memories of your beloved Jan, and the good times you all shared together as a family.We've got your back, Brother. Richard "BO" BosankoBattalion Chief-RetiredKenosha Fire Department