Janice Jean Jorgensen Kanski
Aug. 1, 1937 — March 28, 2024
Janice Jean (Jorgensen) Kanski went to her heavenly home on March 28, 2024, at the Residency in Scottsbluff, Neb., at the age of 86. Janice was born on Aug. 1, 1937, in Rock Springs, Wyo., to James and Dorthean (Wilson) Jorgensen. She married Steve Kanski on April 8, 1956, at the Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Pinedale, Wyo. She and Steve were blessed with four children: Gary, David, Debbie and Diane.
Janice was a longtime resident of Pinedale and it was there that she raised her children on the family ranch. She graduated from Pinedale High School in 1955. Janice was known for her kind and giving nature in the Pinedale community. She was involved in various organizations including the Sage and Snow Garden Club and Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church.
Janice supported her kids in their many activities such as Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, 4-H and their high school activities and sports. Steve and Janice enjoyed their retirement in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., but she kept busy quilting, making ceramics and beading. In addition, she began each day at water aerobics with many friends. After Steve’s passing in 2013, and Gary’s passing in 2015, she moved to Scottsbluff, Neb., living close to her daughter Debbie.
Janice worked hard but joyfully. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Although she has gone home to be with the Lord, the legacy of her love and devotion to her family and community will be cherished forever.
Left to cherish her memories are her children, David Kanski (late Lynda 2023) of Pinedale, Debbie (John) Thomas of Mitchell, Neb., and Diane Degenhart (late Nick 2011) of Denver; sister, Kathryn Briggs (late Floyd 2020) of Pinedale; grandchildren, Clancy Kanski, Andrew (Bethany) Thomas, Lauren (Daniel) Southworth, Kael Degenhart, Katie Degenhart; great-grandchildren, Gabriel Thomas, Emersyn Southworth, Judah Southworth; and many relatives.
The family will be hosting a memorial service in Pinedale this summer.
Memorials are to be made to the Brookestone Hospice and may be sent in care of Bridgman Funeral Home, 2104 Broadway, Scottsbluff, NE 69361.
