Janice Sandra (Samuelson) Jenkins

Janice Sandra Jenkins, age 82 of Mishawaka, formerly of Apple Valley Minnesota, went peacefully home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, her devoted soulmate Pete, and friends and family she has lost during her lifetime on March 9, 2024.

Jan was born October 15, 1941, in Willmar, Minnesota, to the late Richard James and Hazel (Hudson) Samuelson. She is survived by her daughters Tami Joy Jenkins of Avon Colorado, and Karla (Michael) Reed of Mishawaka, as well as her grandchildren Sierra and Anthony Reed, both of Mishawaka. She is also survived by her siblings Diane (Don) Smithgall, Ray (Sue) Samuelson and Becky (Rich) Budke, all from Washington State.

After graduating from Willmar High School and attending Northwestern Bible College in Minnesota, she met Pete at her hometown church, and they were married in Minneapolis on June 29th, 1963. She enjoyed a lifelong love for lake activities, hosting many friends and family for meals and boat rides, as well as showing off her favorite places on the lake. She gained an early appreciation from her parents for nature, gardening, birdwatching, and camping outdoors - always offering to make s’mores at the evening campfires for all who joined.

Jan was also known for her wholehearted giving spirit, spreading joy each year by faithfully sending birthday gift boxes to family and friends, giving dozens of plates of baked goodies to teachers and friends throughout the holidays, making hundreds of care packages for Samaritan's Purse in Africa, and donating to missionaries and Berean Baptist Church.

She worked at her church preschool and had a great fondness for any child she encountered. She had a strong and determined nature that served her well as she met each challenge life brought her, from raising a multiracial family in the 70’s to numerous physical obstacles in her later years. She always stayed true to her faith and kept fighting until her very last breath.

Jan is now resting in a field of lavender without pain or concern. Her remains will be forever buried next to her beloved husband Pete in Mishawaka, Indiana. Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with her care.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Jan’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to consider a donation in memory of Janice to the Missions Fund at Berean Baptist Church, 309 County Road 42 East, Burnsville, Minnesota 55306.