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Jan Marshall
August 15, 2010
My family and I are so grateful to Dr. Van Roekel for all of the years she she was there for our children. I first met her as a first time pregnant mom who had many questions, and she answered them all and made me feel that everything would be okay. Knowing that she and her wonderful staff would be there for us was so reassuring. My children faced both ordinary and extraordinary issues through their growing up years, but knowing that Dr. Jane was there helped us through all of our trials. Our hearts go out to her family as they mourn her loss. She will always have a special place in our hearts.
The Marshall Family
Bonnie Salo
July 25, 2010
Dear Robert,
Al and I live in Ocala, FL but come to IGH in the summer. Right now, we are renting a student apartment for 5 weeks at U of M, Duluth. I did not hear of Jane's death until yesterday. I am so sorry. I did not know her cancer had returned. I will always have my memories of working with Jane at her first office in Divine Remeemer. It was my first office nursing job and I needed a glass of wine by the end of the day--and I don't drink. You must all miss her so much.
My fondest regards,
Bonnie Salo
January 28, 2010
Our entire family is saddened to hear of Dr. Van Roekels passing. I have two children who have gone to Dakota Peds since birth. Over the past few yrs, our kids were diagnosed with diabetes. While they were hospitalized, Dr Van Roekel was there- going through the notes,tests etc. Asking questions. We have always felt we had such a strong advocate in her. Dr Van Roekel will be missed and was certainly a blessing to those of us who were fortunate to have met her.
God bless the family and her friends. She was an angel on earth.
Diane and Ed Conlin
tanya deyo
January 26, 2010
I was so sorry to read of Dr. Van Roekel's passing today in the Inver Grove paper. I went to Dr. Van Roekel when she practiced on Thompson and then to Inver Grove. My children were also lucky enough to have her for their dr. for some years. I have to say that my youngest child was born with a stroke to the spinal cord, (unbeknownest to us) and Dr. Van Roekel came to see him and had him immediately transfered and to this day, i believe it saved his life. We are forever going to miss Dr. Van Roekel and all her care, compassion, understanding and her time. Thank you Dr. Van Roekel - Rest in Peace...
January 18, 2010
I send many warm thoughts and prayers to Dr. Van Roekel's family and those in her clinic and under her care. I remember working with Dr. Van Roekel when I was a resident rotating at Children's Hospitals and Clinics. During the month's rotation, we shared in the care of a child with complex medical issues. She handled each moment of a child's journey with compassion and skill. I feel privileged for the chance to have learned from her. She truly made the world a better place.
With warmest thoughts and prayers-
Kris Ann Schultz
Andrea Gravelle Winters
January 12, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Dr. Van Roekel's family and colleagues. I can only begin to imagine how much she'll be missed by them and her patients. She became my pediatrician 32 years ago, and her compassion was beyond measure. I was grateful to her several years ago for allowing me to shadow her in a day of practice. The care she provided for me and my siblings has certainly made a significant impression on how I practice pediatric cardiology to this day.
Sherry Wood/Scherer
January 7, 2010
Just found out about doctor Van Roekels death today so sad and send all our love to her famliy they are I'm sure going to miss her and she very much spent her time with you as a doctor and made sure you understood what she was telling you. My three daughters went to her they are now 26 and 20 and 15 and healthy and myself am a cancer survivor and My team for relay will have a luminar bag in her honor and memory these year to honor ger family. So thank you for all your hard work Van Roekel.
Theresa Burger
January 7, 2010
My Family sends our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Dr. Van Roekel has treated my kids and was always willing to answer any question we thrown at her. So we ask why they always take the good and kind hearted ones. Well There must be a good reason, she has all the heart to take care of all our kids when they come to her down the road and he trusted her. Love and Prayers from My family to yours. The Burgers
January 6, 2010
I was a patient of Dr. Van Roekels for 10 years. During those years she made all of my visits fun and was a very calm doctor to be around. She had a way of explaining things to me so I could understand and learn about myself. Me and my family had no idea that she was even sick, or had breast cancer in the past. She always had a smile on her face even if there was bad news to tell me. She made me feel like I wasnt the only kid dealing with what I have to deal with. I hope she knew she wasnt the only one who was dealing with her battle. I wish I couldve said good-bye, but we left each other the last thing she said was, "I'll see you next year." Now, that I know I will not be seeing next year, I know I will see her in heaven.
Washington Patnaude 12 years old.
Jessica Bryant Bissey
January 6, 2010
Sarah, I am sorry to learn about the loss of your mother. Please know that you and your family are in our prayers during this time of grief.
Jessica Bryant Bissey
Beth Kirvida Langhoff
January 5, 2010
Dear Sarah,
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. Please know that your Vis friends and family are thinking of you and keeping you in our prayers. ((Hugs..))
January 5, 2010
I was so shocked & saddened to read this obit. Jane was an excellent, compassionate doctor. She was the pediatrician for my 4 children. She was so supportive & helpful in all aspects of taking care of their health. She will be truly missed & forever remembered. Joan Ries
Eric and Pam Paulsen
January 5, 2010
Dr Van Roekel quite literally saved 2 of my children's lives - once during an asthma crisis in my oldest daughter and once by keeping my premature son in the NICU a bit longer - just to be safe. We will all remember her with love and gratitude always. She will be cherished and sorely missed, and we are forever in her debt.
Mary Koenigsberger
January 4, 2010
Jane was an angel on earth - a very loving and caring doctor who set a first time mom at ease answering each and every question without blinking. She will be greatly missed.
connie lutz
January 3, 2010
Bobby and family,
I dont know how to express my deepest sympathy, but know I am thinkig of you all and the deep sorrow you are feeling. Jane was one of a kind and I will value all the times I was able to see her at family gatherings. God Bless, Connie Monsour Lutz
Carrie & Jamey Engstrom
January 1, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
William Purdy Sr,
January 1, 2010
My wife already commented, but I as the Father of our five children must also comment about Our Dear Dr. Jane. We were young and dumb about our children's health (at least I was) so Dr. Van Roekel's entry into our lives was truly a God-send. I can't count the times that I spoke to Dr. Van Roekel about all our children's illnesses, she was so thorough and good. Several times she would have Robin and I come into the office and would do tests on us to see if we had strep or whatever - most doctors would have made Robin and I go to our own doctors for those tests, but not her. And I can't count the times when we would rush our kids to the Emergency room in the middle of a Sat. or holiday night, and when she was called by the Emergency staff, she would get up and come right down to the Emergency room to administer her skills on "her kids". And when we went through changes of medical coverage's she continued to give our children her loving care until it got straightened-out, she would go ahead and do what she thought was best whether or not the insurance companies were going to pay or not. She truly was a doctor "to serve humanity", to that I can attest. Thank you Dr. Jane Van Roekel ! ! !
William S. Purdy
Father of 5 of Dr. Jane's Kids
Sandy Frame
January 1, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
William & Robin Purdy
January 1, 2010
Dr. Van Roekel was the pediatrician to all five of my children starting in 1978 - 2005 ( Lanee, Darla, Michael, Mark and William). During that time instead of "Dr. Van Roekel " she became "Jane our family friend and doctor" . Jane and Bob often attended my son's basketball games at STA after her son had already graduated just to support the school and my son. She also came to my daughters college graduation and my son's high school graduation which showed the kind of sweet closeness she had with her patinets & their familys. My husband & I are deeply sadened to hear of her passing.
Stephen Mike
December 31, 2009
Dear Bobby and Family.
Our deepest sympathies to you for your loss. Jane was a great lady who brought joy to those who knew her. Our memories of her will always bring a smile to our faces.
God's comfort to you all.
Stephen and Josie Mike
Terri Jasper
December 31, 2009
Dear Sarah, Bobby and Family,
I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this sad time. Hold the wonderful memories you shared together in your hearts forever. May God bless you all.
Jill Sampson
December 31, 2009
We are very sad to hear of her passing. Both of our boys, now 22 and 23 saw her many times over the years for ear infections, asthma and other childhood maladies. She was very caring and compassionate and alwasy took whatever time we needed to get our questions answered.
Christin Miotke
December 31, 2009
Dr. Van Roekel saved my life. When I was younger and my gymnastic coach noticed a curve in my back my mother brought me to see her and she made my diagnosis. Had it not been for this wonderful woman my life would not have turned out the way it did, I may not even be here for my whole children and for the I literally owe her my life. Thank you Dr. you will be loved and missed.
Blanton Bessinger
December 31, 2009
To Bob and family,
We are so sad. Our thoughts and prayers are for you as we all grieve for the loss of this wonderful person.
Blanton and Bonnie
Darla (Purdy) Rubio
December 31, 2009
Dr. Van Roekel was my doctor from when I was a newborn until I was 18 and the doctor to my four siblings as well. I was blessed to have her as my children's doctor ( Aleah 12 and Camila 6 ) from birth on. I am very saddened to hear of her death as she was the kindest, sweetest, and most caring doctors I had ever known. She showed up to my sisters high school graduation party and had a blast - how many people can say that their doctor came to their graduation party??? She will forever be missed. When I take my kids to the doctor it will not be the same.
“Farewell! God knows when we shall meet again” ~William Shakespeare
December 31, 2009
We are very saddened to hear the news of Dr. Van Roekel's passing. She was a wonderful, compassionate doctor to our three sons. Her persistence led to a bone infection diagnosis of our middle son, Jeremy, when he was 9 months old. May you be comforted by the knowledge that she helped the lives of many!
The Johnston's, Lake Elmo, MN
Kelley Meyer
December 30, 2009
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Dr. Van Roekel's passing. She was my girls' (Lindsay and Emily) doctor from the day they were born until they turned 19-20 years old and I reluctantly searched for an "adult" doctor for them within the past year. She was a wonderful, caring doctor who helped us through many an ear infection and those dreaded teenage years. We will miss you. Our deepest sympathies to Dr. Jane's family. Ken and Kelley Meyer
December 30, 2009
I am so sorry to here of Dr. Van Roekel's passing she was my 3 childrens Dr., the oldest who just turned 30 and she was the Dr. to the next generation, my grandaughter. She was such a giving person, she will be missed. God Bless her Family at this difficult time.
Sandy Nohrenberg
December 30, 2009
Dr Van Roekel was our daughter's pediatrician for many years, we are so grateful for all the wonderful care she received. Our condolences go out to Dr Van Roekel's family. The Nohrenberg family
December 30, 2009
I am so saddened by Jane's passing------she has taken care of my 3 daughters for 26 years-------I i love her very much and trusted her completely-----her family should be very proud of her she helped many many children and families----I felt so close to her my love and sympathy-----Lori Englund, West st. Paul, Mn
Brenda Tonda
December 30, 2009
Dear Bobby and kids I am so sorry to hear of Jane's passing. My family has always thought of you two as dear friends.Also Jane was my son Dominic's doctor when he was younger. She was great.
December 30, 2009
So shocked and saddened to hear of Dr. Van Roekel's passing! She has been both of my sons' Pediatrician for the last 14 years, and we just saw her at the beginning of the new school year for their regular flu vaccinations and physicals. We all have felt so bad today, learning of her death from another friend, whose children had her for a Pediatrician as well. Dr. Van Roekel was such a sweetheart, and one of my sons is a Special Needs child, and she always called me immediately whenever I needed her. We will miss her immensely!!! Our deepest condolences to the VanRoekel/Deeb family!!! Sincerely, Jackie Gill and sons, Andrew and Christopher Pirk
Janet Robertson
December 30, 2009
Dr. Van Roekel was my children's pediatrician and I valued her opinion. As a new Mom 29 years ago, I hung on her every word. I also had a great opportunity to work with her at children's hospital.
She will truly be missed.
December 30, 2009
Dear Bob and family~
Our deepest sympathy to you all. We were very sad to hear of Jane's passing and will keep you all in our prayers.
May God help you through the tough days and know, Jane will always be in your hearts.
Shawn, Kay, Shelby & Blake Edmondson
Fran and Theresa Bartholet
December 30, 2009
To the Deeb Family,
We are greatly going to miss Dr. Van Roekel's true love and concern for the health of children. She listened and heard our concerns about our Elizabeth years ago. And with many thanks to her, Elizabeth is doing well with Bechet's. Dr. Van Roekel will be sadly missed. Our deepest sympathies to all her family and associates.
Gregg Phillips
December 30, 2009
Jane was my children's pediatrician and she was my daughter's Godmother. I always loved her thorough nature when it came to my kid's health, and as a friend, I always loved her laugh. To the Deeb family, my heart goes out to you and my prayers are with you during this difficult time.
December 30, 2009
Dear Bobby, The prays be with you. I can't tell you it will be easy, but draw on your family and friends for strength. Talk about her alot to every one Cry and laugh and than laugh and cry again. Jane will be greeted at the gates by Jim and his big arms will hold her tight. Love and prays be with you Barb Franklin
Sara Moe
December 30, 2009
I am truly saddened to hear about the loss of Dr. Van Roekel. She was an amazing woman. She was our family doctor for many years and as I had children, she was there for them since birth. She has helped me with many new mom questions and emergencies. I feel blessed to have run into her not to long ago at Applebee's. I told her and her husband how amazing she has been for me. The other posts on here are right, I never even had a clue that she was facing such a terrible disease. What a fighter to be doing it a third time! She was definitely an inspirational woman that will be greatly missed. My heart breaks for all that feel this loss. Everytime I am in or near Dakota Peds., I will always think of her. God Bless your family during this hard time.
JIM & BARB ABSEY
December 30, 2009
DEAR BOB AND FAMILY,
WE ARE SO SORRY TO LEARN OF JANE'S
PASSING. WE WANT TO OFFER OUR SINCERE
SYMPATHY.
A MEMORIAL DONATION HAS BEEN MADE IN
JANE'S HONOR TO CHILDRENS HOSPITAL.
DEEPEST CONDOLENCE'S
JIM AND BARB ABSEY.
Gwen Brummund
December 30, 2009
Someone tell me it isn't so. Heaven is filled with angels, now they have one more. I am going to miss you. I loved our partnership raising these babies. Matt and Sami are going to miss you to. I pray for easy days for your family and co-workers. Thank you for all you have done.
Beth, Eric, Tyler, and Logan Dunning
December 30, 2009
We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Van Roekel. She has done wonders for our family in helping with our boys. We very much appreciate the way she cared and her dedication. Our deepest sympathies to your family and her team at Dakota Pediatric.
Jenna Milner
December 30, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to Dr. Van Roekel's family and the staff at Dakota Pediatrics. Our children go to the Lakeville office, and have always received the best care. She was a kind and caring doctor who made a difference in our lives. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
The Milner Family
Gary, Jenna, Maria and Will
Deb Schultz
December 30, 2009
I guess it's been many years since I worked at Dakota Pediatrics, but in a lot of ways it seems like just yesterday. Dr. Van Roekel had such a peaceful way about her as she interacted with the kids that came to the clinic. I also treasure having worked with Sarah through my short employment there as well. My heart is with the family as they mourn the loss of Jane and also with the staff at Dakota Peds.
Deb Schultz
(Sergeant)
Dewey, AZ
Julie Steffen
December 30, 2009
Both my sons had Dr. Van Roekel from birth to many more years. She was always a comfort to me as a new mother and had such understanding and helpful advice. May God bless.
Greg Mansur
December 30, 2009
Dear Bob and Family,
We are very saddened by the loss of Jane. She was a wonderful lady who was praised by everyone I know that knew her. We wish all the best to your entire family.
Ann Wilson
December 30, 2009
All three of my children now all in their 20s were patients at Dakota Pediatrics in IGH from birth until their very late teens.
We continued our association with the clinic even as we moved many miles away.
Jane was their primary doctor. She was all focused and dedicated to the particulars of each son as they received diagnosis and treatment (if necessary). She was a wonderful tribute to her profession because she was a wonderful, caring person.
Deeb family-may your memories of her and knowledge of where she is now, give you comfort.
All of us whose lives were touched by her are blessed.
December 30, 2009
I wanted to send my condolences to Dr. Van Roekel's family and co-workers at Dakota Pediatrics. She was a great doctor and my children always liked to visit with her when she came into the exam room. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Lori Kaemmer (Joshua, Ryan and Ethan)
Wayne & Sharen Bloechl
December 30, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about Jane she was a great person and doctor. So many children are in this world today because of her my nieces & nephews included. She will be greatly missed and rememberd forever by all of us. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Terry Schuh
December 30, 2009
My deepest sympathies to Dr. Van Roekel's family. She was our beloved pediatrician for 10 years and it was because of her skill as a physician that we were able to get our daughter's illness diagnosed and treated at such a young age improving her quality of life immensely. We will deeply miss her.
Bridget Holmen
December 30, 2009
Our many thanks and gratitude for the loving care that Dr. Van Roekel gave our children and the peace of mind she gave to us as parents. Our prayers and thoughts are with her family and friends.
The Holmen Family
Jill (Lange) Rangarajan
December 30, 2009
To the Deeb Family---
We are so saddened to hear of your loss---our hearts broke this morning when we heard. I will always remember your whole family---I remember you guys living across the street from us, all the days and nights at your house on Felix, and how loving your family was. Both my brother, John, and I have such fond memories of your mom--she had a heard of gold. We are so sorry for your loss!
Jill (Lange) Rangarajan
December 30, 2009
We are thinking of you and saying prayers for you and your family at this sad time in your life.
Scheri, Dwaine, Joe and Andrew
Sevenich-Peterson
December 30, 2009
To the Deeb family I send my deepest sympathy. Jane was an outstanding physician, truly reflecting her love of medicine and children. Her love for her family was evident when ever she was with them or spoke of them. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Vickie (Schaffer) Haugen
John Riehle
December 30, 2009
We send our sympathy to Dr. Van Roekel's family. Our relationship goes back to January, 1977. Our second child was born with a diaphramatic hernia at Riverview Hospital. Dr. Van Roekel was the pediatrician on call--from her first practice in the Divine Redeemer building. She came, diagnosed the problem and that began the miraculous next few hours.
Because of her, our daughter lived and has blossomed into a mother herself.
Like others, we praise and thank Dr. Van Roekel for her medical expertise, but also for her compassion, presence, and care for each of her patients.
Mary and John Riehle [and Sara]
Melanie Stewart
December 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
December 30, 2009
I will always remember how kind and considerate Dr. Van Roekel was. I am very sorry to hear of your loss and will say a prayer for your family.
Tom Haas
December 30, 2009
We were very saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Van Roekel. Right before we had our first child, we were referred to Dr. Van Roekel by an older family friend who had brought their children to see her. That was almost 20 years ago. Now that our children are older, we do not frequent the IGH clinic as often and so did not realize that she was once again battling breast cancer. She was one to be admired though; she never let on (at least to the patients) how she may have been feeling. She always had a smile and always entered the exam room with "How are the Rechtzigels today?" She will be missed. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family, loved ones and coworkers. In our thoughts and prayers -- Tim, Diane, Whitney, Peyton and Marnie Rechtzigel
December 30, 2009
Dear Deeb Family,
We express our deepest sympathy to your family at this time.
Nancy and Kevin Klande
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