MCFARLAND, WI
Janis Janelsins, age 77, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023 in McFarland, WI. He was born on June 27, 1946 in Neunburg Vorm Wald, Germany with his twin brother Gunard, to Eduards and Malvine Janelsins, natives of Latvia. Janis graduated Warren Township High School in 1964 and from Butler University in 1968. He received his Master’s Degrees from Ball State University. Janis taught Middle School US History at Stonybrook Middle School, Warren Township for over 30 years and coached football, wrestling, and track. He was instrumental in growing New Palestine youth sports through New Palestine football and New Palestine Wrestling Club. Janis also was a charter member of Cross of Grace Lutheran Church in New Palestine, IN. He moved with his wife to McFarland, WI in 2018 to be with family and especially grandchildren.
Janis is survived by his wife, Anne Ford Janelsins of 50 years; children include Eriks of Wheeling, WV and Karlis of McFarland, WI; sister, Ruta Showalter of New Palestine; and twin brother, Gunars (Joan) Janelsins of Greenfield; grandchildren include, Maija Janelsins, Charlie Janelsins, Decker Janelsins, Edward Janelsins and two step grandchildren, Eve and Grace Ridenhour of Wheeling, WV; and nieces, Krista (Charlie) Bridenthal and Alicia Nelson.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at Cross of Grace Lutheran Church, 3519 S. 600 W, New Palestine, IN, with funeral services starting at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Washington Park East in Indianapolis. Memorial contributions may be made to Cross of Grace Lutheran Church. Please share your memories of Janis by posting in his Guestbook at: www.CressFuneralService.com. Cress Funeral Services of McFarland, WI are assisting the family, 608-838-0655.
