Terry Dean Janzen of Wichita passed away on December 18, 2020, surrounded by family, after a battle with cancer. He was born September 14, 1952, in Newton to Arthur H. and Louise (Hiebert) Janzen.
Terry graduated from Newton High School with the class of 1970, and was a dedicated employee of Kansas Gas Service for more than 30 years.
On May 18, 1985, Terry married the love of his life Norma Schmidt. He was a passionate supporter of their children, Eric and Nicole, and their spouses, Jessica and Cole.
Together with his family he shared a lifetime love of sports (especially Kansas State, Wichita State, the Chiefs, and the Royals), the outdoors, and music. Family vacations were often spent hiking in the mountains of Colorado or on the water at Lake of the Ozarks. Terry frequently shared his love of music, attending concerts with family and friends.
Terry was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his wife, Norma; son Eric Janzen, wife Jessica; daughter Nicole Kruse, husband Cole; mother Louise; brothers, Larry Janzen, wife Michelle, and Darryl Janzen; sister, Cheryl Sauerwein; and many beloved nephews and nieces.
Due to COVID-19, and for the safety of all our family and friends, there will be no visitation or funeral services. The family will plan to have a celebration of life (aka, a big party like TJ would have wanted) once we are able to safely gather again.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Attn: Janzen Fund, PO Box 3100, Estes Park, CO 80517, or Mennonite Central Committee, PO Box 50, Akron, PA 17501.
https://donate.mcc.org/
I am sorry to hear of Terry’s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Norma – and your family, as well, Larry & Michelle, Cheryl, Louise
You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your TJ. Memories from the late 70’s, early 80’s come to mind. He had a life well lived – embrace those memories.
We are so sorry for your premature loss of our beloved soul Terry Janzen. He was a bright spot in our lives, as we are sure, in yours also.
We send lots of love, hugs and kisses your way as we grieve with you all.
Dear Norma, Eric and Nicole,
I know it can be sad and I know nothing can make it better right now. Your fond memories of a incredible dad and a caring husband will remain with you for along time. I have many nice family memories and so many of them around the table at Louise and Arts house when Louise always made sure we were all fed – and she did the dishes and pots and pans for all of us. And then of course their little dog – I got bit many a time- I hope by now you can smile a little – your dad was awesome and always listened.
May the God of all comfort be your guide during these days – Irene Janzen
Didn’t see Terry obit til yesterday. My condolences to family. I knew Terry at Lincoln elementary, Santa Fe Jr. High, 1st Mennonite Church, and NHS class of ’70. His dad Art coached my intramural bball team. Had Terry help me bring the ball upcourt, as I was pathetic. Terry was a good guy for all the years I knew him. Not mean to me like so many athletic types were. Sorry to see our class lose another good one.