Jan Jankowski

Madison - Jan Jankowski "Janski", born March 11, 1943, passed away at his home on July 5, 2014. He grew up in Whitefish Bay, WI, the eldest son of Eddie Jankowski (Green Bay Packers and UW Football Hall of Fame Member) and Arlene Jankowski.
Jan was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at an early age, but never let that define him. His love of skiing took him to Aspen, CO for many years to appreciate the mountains. Upon returning to Wisconsin, he lived in Milwaukee before moving to Madison. He was given the gift of life, receiving a kidney-pancreas transplant in Madison in October of 1986 by Dr. Hans Sollinger.
Jan faced many medical challenges over the years and overcame them all to live an amazingly full life. He worked at the UW Hospital and Clinics along with the American Family Children's Hospital reception desks up until the time of his death. He remained active in the Madison Corvette Club, JDRF and NKF fundraisers, Transplant Games (bicycling), Milwaukee Birthday Club and was an avid Packers Fan his entire life. His companions throughout the years were his two faithful Wheaton terriers; Tammie Faye and Mango. Even though Jan successfully remained a bachelor, he would often speak of his four ex-wives. Jennifer, whom he met while in high school; in addition to Mary, Lisa and Nancy, who were his transplant comrades.
He was a generous person and would annually donate Packers tickets to the American Family Children's Hospital which would allow a deserving family the opportunity to experience the Lambeau aura. In addition, he would often enter his corvette into competitions, then gifting the prizes and trophies to children. Without his generosity and sense of humor, life would have been a little less sweet.
He is survived by his sister, Mary Lynn, other relatives and friends. Jan was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Jon.
Friends may call at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church (2116 Hollister Ave, Madison WI, 53726) on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 from 4:30pm until the time of the Memorial Mass at 6:00pm with Father Steve Kuhlmann, O.P. presiding.
We are deeply grateful to all of his doctors and caregivers for their excellent care and support. In lieu of flowers, Jan asks that you register to be an organ donor at: YesIWillWisconsin.com Donations can be made in his name to: Douglas T Miller Transplant Fund (600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53792)