Janis Janelsins

Janis Janelsins, age 77, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023 in McFarland, WI. He was born on June 27, 1946 in Neunburg Vorm Wald, Germany with his twin brother Gunard, to Eduards and Malvine Janelsins, natives of Latvia. Janis graduated Warren Township High School in 1964 and from Butler University in 1968. He received his Master’s Degrees from Ball State University. Janis taught Middle School US History at Stonybrook Middle School, Warren Township for over 30 years and coached football, wrestling, and track. He was instrumental in growing New Palestine youth sports through New Palestine football and New Palestine Wrestling Club. Janis also was a charter member of Cross of Grace Lutheran Church in New Palestine, IN. He moved with his wife to McFarland, WI in 2018 to be with family and especially grandchildren.

Janis is survived by his wife, Anne Ford Janelsins of 50 years; children include Eriks of Wheeling, WV and Karlis of McFarland, WI; sister, Ruta Showalter of New Palestine; and twin brother, Gunars (Joan) Janelsins of Greenfield; grandchildren include, Maija Janelsins, Charlie Janelsins, Decker Janelsins, Edward Janelsins and two step grandchildren, Eve and Grace Ridenhour of Wheeling, WV; and nieces, Krista (Charlie) Bridenthal and Alicia Nelson.

Funeral services in Indiana will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at Cross of Grace Lutheran Church in New Palestine, IN. Burial will follow in Washington Park East in Indianapolis, IN. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of services at church on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cross of Grace Lutheran Church.

Memorial services in McFarland will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at McFarland Lutheran Church, 5529 Marsh Road, McFarland. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to McFarland Lutheran Church.

Please share your memories of Janis by posting in his Guestbook.

Cress Funeral Services

5801 US Highway 51, PO Box 105, McFarland

(608) 838-0655