It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Janet Ahrens on December 10, 2025. Born on July 9, 1939, Janet was a ray of strength, warmth, and joy in all of our lives.

Janet was predeceased by her beloved husband James L. Ahrens, her cherished son James M. Ahrens, and her loving parents Angie (Jansen) Knaack and Howard Knaack. She is survived by her sister Carol (Knaack) Schmidt, devoted sons, Jeffrey and Michael Ahrens, her daughters-in-law Lynn Ahrens, Becky Ahrens, Jody Ahrens, and Rosa Ahrens, her precious grandchildren Brett, Katie, Mica, and Reese Ahrens, Andrew Bowen and Brittany Bowen. Her family was her greatest joy, the center of her universe, and the source of her strength.

Janet met the love of her life at a spring formal when she was 16, and it was love at first sight. They were married at St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran Church on September 19th, 1959, and had a fairy tale story type of true love for each other. Janet never remarried after James' passing in 1998, and she always said that James was her one and only love, and she has been longing for his embrace since.

Janet's personality was one of warmth, love and compassion while always putting the needs and happiness of others before her own. She cherished all family and friends and was always there for them during good times and bad while making every moment count. A quick phone call would easily turn into an hour conversation. A short visit was always at least 2 to 3 hours long. She taught us to be kind and respectful to others and not to judge, a lesson we will forever carry in our hearts, and teach to others.

A graduate of Appleton West High School, Janet's life was defined by numerous accomplishments, including her family, her career at AAL, and her beautiful garden. She leaves behind a rich legacy of kindness, a helpful spirit, and a deep love for nature and flowers.

Janet's favorite things in life were her grandchildren's artwork (she saved EVERYTHING they made), the Green Bay Packers, working in her garden, mystery novels, watching game shows, cross stitching and knitting washcloths for Christmas presents for her family and friends.

In her heart, Janet responded to her late husband James' call to join him. They were the loves of each other's lives, and she joyfully went to be by his side. We mourn Janet's passing but take comfort in knowing that she is at peace and reunited with her loved ones.

The family would like to give special thanks to Rebecca Ahrens for her help and support, to Joanne Kemps for visiting often and being a dear friend, to Jody Ahrens (Vander Zanden) for her love and helping hand, and to all of the staff at Oakridge Gardens Rehabilitation Center for their loving care and support.

A funeral service to honor Janet's beautiful life will be held on December 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Brettschneider-Trettin-Nickel Funeral Chapel & Crematory. Friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.  We invite all those who knew and loved Janet to join us in remembering her remarkable life, please feel free to wear Packers attire in support of her love of her favorite sports team.