Our loving mother, grandmother, wife and friend, Janet Louise Kohlmeier, passed away on Friday, November 26th, 2010 at St. John's Pleasant Valley Hospital in Camarillo at the age of 57 from advanced liver disease.
Janet was born on July 29th, 1953 in Lynwood, CA to Phyllis and Larry Freels. She had two siblings, Roy Freels and Judi Sirmons (deceased). Janet's hometown was Lancaster, CA where she met her future husband, John Kohlmeier. They both graduated in 1971 from Antelope Valley High School. Janet and John met at the age of 15 in geometry class and fell in love. They were married on July 28th, 1973.
Janet graduated from California Lutheran University in 1975 with her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology. In 1980, her son, Joshua was born. Three years later, her daughter, Joelle was conceived. In 1986 her other daughter, Jenna, was born. While raising her three children, Janet received her Master's Degree in Public Health from California State University, Northridge and her Lamaze Childbirth Educator Certification. She had a myriad of hobbies such as, camping in the mountains, frequenting Southern California's beaches, gardening, birdwatching and participating in "game night" with her friends.
She is survived by her husband, John; children; Joshua, Joelle and Jenna; grandson, Issac, her mother, Phylllis Freels; brother, Roy Freels and her beloved pugs, Scally and Cricket.
The memorial service will be held at Mount Cross Lutheran Church on Friday, December 3rd, 2010 at 1:00 PM. The church address is 102 Camino Esplendido Camarillo, CA 93010. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Janet Kohmeier to the American Liver Foundation at the following site www.liverfoundation.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Rose Castren
December 28, 2010
It's been a long time John since I have seen you and Janet. The old BAM days seem like a distant memory but I remember them fondly. I was so sorry to hear that Janet had passed away. It was too soon for her to go, I hope the best for you in these coming days, she was your sidekick and a very sweet lady. Rose Baca Castren
Kevin Gillogly
December 14, 2010
John, Your eulogy for Janet at her service was a most touching expression of enduring devotion. You mentioned that in the days following,on your early morning walk, you noticed a lone bright star in the pre-dawn sky and in that moment you found yourself connecting with your beloved Janet. That singular star you noticed was likely the planet Venus, which is also called the morning star, and so named for the Roman goddess of love. How fitting and comforting.
David Garvin
December 8, 2010
Janet loved her family alot she sat right across from me here at Wellpoint i heard her everyday talking to her fam she loved them very much i pray that God comfort the Kohlmeier family peace.
Judy Cerruti
December 7, 2010
To the entire Kohlmeier family: There truly are no words to express the sorrow I feel at Janet's loss. What does one say after more than 40 years of love and laughter and friendship? She was an amazing person in every sense of the word and will be greatly missed by countless people whose lives she touched. She's left an incredible legacy -- as evidenced by the heartfelt and emotional outpourings at her memorial service. Think how wonderful this world would be if everyone had the positive impact that Janet had in her too-short life! Please know my love and thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. And Janet -- here's to you, my friend. I know we'll all be together again someday. So until that time, rest in peace and know that you were/are loved beyone measure.
Andrea Whittenberg
December 5, 2010
Dear John,
We were so sorry to hear about your loss. You and Janet were soulmates and I know your heart must feel like it will never mend. Please take comfort in the wonderful memories you have of Janet and know she is sending you her love and strength from heaven.
Also send up a little prayer to God, because you know Janet is already telling him how to rearrange heaven! And if God is smart, he will listen to her the first time. As you already know, Janet was an amazing wife, mother, and friend.
With much love,
Ed and Andy Whittenberg
Luke Golden
December 4, 2010
Dear John,
As a colleague, mentor and friend, it pains us to see you lose your life's partner. We wish you a healthy and peaceful grieving process. Our thoughts, prayers and emotionally healing energies go out to you and your family. You are a kind and generous soul and I am sure you made the very best partner a person can be. Lee and I are grateful you came into our lives and I am grateful for how you helped me through my difficult time. You have been and continue to be a source of solace and peace to all you come in contact with. We know you gave the same comfort to your wife in her journey to the next world.
With our heartfelt condolences,
Luke Golden and Randilee Serra
Janet Kanongataa
December 3, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier family. I just heard today about your loss. Your whole family was very dear to me. Please know that I am thinking about you all during this difficult time. Janet Kanongataa
Irene & Rick
December 3, 2010
Dear John and family...with all our heart we send our prayers and condolences at this time. Know that you are a beloved and dear friend. We are so sorry for your loss....with much love, Irene Silbert and Rick Geiger
Karen Hazlewood
December 3, 2010
Dear John,
I know your sorrow, and I know the Lord is holding you and your family in his arms. I am sure Janet is singing songs of joy in heaven while we are feeling the sorrows and the pain of loss. May you draw your strength form the Lord.
Barbara Leighty
December 3, 2010
Dear John,
I was deeply saddened to hear of Janet's passing. When we lose someone we love, it seems that time stands still. I know it's difficult right now to see beyond the sorrow, but you have wonderful memories with Janet too beautiful to forget. May these memories give you strength in the weeks and months ahead. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
December 3, 2010
Dear John,
My heart and condolences are with you and your loving family during this time of mourning for the loss of Janet. Take comfort from the many friends and family that you have.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Maria Vargas
Laurie Aiello
December 3, 2010
To Janet's Family,
May you find peace and comfort in your family and friends and in knowing that she is in the Lord's arms for eternity.
With heartfelt love,
December 3, 2010
You are all in my thoughts and my prayers. I know how difficult this time is, but I am confident that Janet is looking down from heaven, beaming with pride at each of you: John, Josh, Joelle, Jenna, Isaac, and Phyllis. May God's grace and peace be with you. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Carol Forbes
December 2, 2010
Dear John and family, I'm so sorry to hear of Janet's passing. I didn't know she was sick. You were great neighbors, and I hear you have raised some pretty good kids to be proud of. I pray that you will all find peace and comfort in knowing that Janet is with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus. Love, Sybil Villaryo
Stephanie Langlois
December 2, 2010
Dear Mr. Kohlmeier & Family,
In sympathy and friendship, our hearts, our prayers, and our love are with you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
The Langlois Family
Donna Watson
December 2, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family,
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I think back on all the good times we had during the swim team years. I feel very blessed to have been part of Janet's life in her game group too. We had such fun on our trips as well as "life moments" we shared. Janet you will be so missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
The Watson Family
Jim, Donna, Robin and Justine
Darla Brown
December 1, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family,
My heart goes out to you at this time. I know you know how lucky you are to have each other and how blessed you are to have had your mom as your mom. She was an amazing women and did a wonderful job raising her children. I am lucky to know you all. The Moras and the Browns send their love and have you in their thoughts.
Louise Libbon
December 1, 2010
I was one of Janet's roommates at CLU way back in the early 70s. So, John was also a big part of my life as well. I have so many fond memories of those days. She was a great roommate and study mate. We were both Pysch majors and when I studied with her my grades went way up! Alas, I lost her to John as a roommate when they wed! But, I still sought her out to study with. After college, I married and moved to Arizona. We stayed in touch through different milestones in our lives and at Christmas. But, this last year we reconnected on Facebook. I'm so thankful that I had that last year to really get that connection. It really was a gift. And I even became "Facebook Friends" with her daughter Joelle (who remindes me so much of Janet). I hope that I can continue to stay connected with Janet's family through her. My heart breaks for all of you. John, I can't even imagine how you are coping. You two have been together for so many years. I so wish that I could be there on Friday. I will be there in spirit. My thoughts and prayers have been with you all this past week and I will continue to pray for your healing and comfort. My love always.....
Susan James
December 1, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family,
I worked with Janet for many years at WellPoint, and she was such a great person, always upbeat and fun to work with. She will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Carol Mondello-Settle
December 1, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family - I had the good fortune to work with Janet from 2000-2004. At work, she was a genuine, kindhearted leader who cared about her staff and never lost sight of what was most important. Considering how she spoke about each one of you, I know that her family was not only important, but more precious than gold to her. I will keep you all in my thoughts snd prayers.
December 1, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family,
What a perfect photograph you chose to accompany this beautiful tribute. Yes, that is our friend Janet,smiling and greeting us warmly. That's how she'll always be in our hearts. We're there with you all now, arms around one another, hugging and remembering the love and friendship she brought to all our lives. She leaves us with such a void, but maybe she's shuffling the cards and ready to deal. Until then, we'll really miss her.
Hold on tightly to your memories. They are wonderful and to be cherished. We loved her and we love you all as well.
Marj and Billy Magee
Cumming, Georgia
Susan Gransee
December 1, 2010
I am glad I crossed paths with Janet when she worked at Cam State. She was a positive influence and an all around great person. I am very sorry for your loss.
Cheryl Baker
December 1, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier Family,
I had the privilege of working with Janet at WellPoint. She was a gentle, caring person with a good sense of humor and a down-to-earth perspective on life. Janet and I shared a love of the outdoors and a devotion to our families. We spoke several times about how much our families mean to us. I know that she loved you all very much. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Cheryl Baker
Pam Ballard
November 30, 2010
Dearest Kohlmeier Family,
We have shared so many memories over the past 22 years. Swim meets, Vegas, birthday milestones, graduations, anniversaries, passing of family members, mini vacations, weddings, birth of our first grandchildren, and of course camping trips.
I will always remember Janet’s love of the Sierra’s, Lake Tahoe, Lake Cachuma, Thorn Hill Broome, Leo Carrillo Beach, Flying Flags and Pechanga camp grounds. I will think of her when the fire cracks and dances with the moon light, when we make Smores, when yellow canaries fly over the campground at Leo Carrillo and cooking in our camp pots. As our families prepare for future camping trips, I’m sure I’ll be waiting for your call to coordinate the food for the trip. As someone else pointed out, the trip won’t be complete without Janet there to “help” John get the trailer parked correctly.
Janet was a loving wife, wonderful mother, and mother in law, grandmother and a great friend. We will miss you so. I know that you were ill and when I reflect back on this past year, it amazes me how you still wanted to do all your regular activities.
We loved your mother and we’ll miss her. We feel blessed and privileged to have been a part of her life. If there’s camping in heaven, I’ll meet her at the campfire. We’ll see you on the other side my friend.
Love,
The Ballard Family
Pam Ballard
November 30, 2010
Dearest Kohlmeier Family,
We have shared so many memories over the past 22 years. Swim meets, Vegas, birthday milestones, graduations, anniversaries, passing of family members, mini vacations, weddings, birth of our first grandchildren, and of course camping trips.
I will always remember Janet’s love of the Sierra’s, Lake Tahoe, Lake Cachuma, Thorn Hill Broome, Leo Carrillo Beach, Flying Flags and Pechanga camp grounds. I will think of her when the fire cracks and dances with the moon light, when we make Smores, when the yellow canaries fly over the campground at Leo Carrillo and cooking in our camp pots. As our families prepare for future camping trips, I’m sure I’ll be waiting for your call to coordinate the food for the trip. As someone else pointed out, the trip won’t be complete without Janet there to “help” John get the trailer parked correctly.
Janet was a loving wife, wonderful mother, and mother in law, grandmother and a great friend. We will miss you so. I know that you were ill and when I reflect back on this past year, it amazes me how you still wanted to do all your regular activities.
We loved your mother and we’ll miss her. We feel blessed and privileged to have been a part of her life. If there’s camping in heaven, I’ll meet her at the campfire. We’ll see you on the other side my friend.
Love,
The Ballard Family
Katherine Turk - Linne
November 30, 2010
Dear Kohlmeier family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Janet was such an amazing person, and I consider myself lucky to have had the chance to have her in my life for a few years!
Some of the best memories that I have of my college years include Janet and you guys! You guys are such a special family, and are so lucky to have had Janet in your lives--she loved you guys very much.
My prayers are with you!!
Kat (Turk) Linne
Debi Owens
November 30, 2010
Janet was a kind, fun loving, upbeat, wonderful lady. I am thankful that I was able to spend some good times with her.
November 30, 2010
Dear Kohlmeirs, our deepest symphony to you all. I was very shocked to hear the news about Janet. I remember all the good times our swim families shared each year. We really did have some good times. I'm glad to say I knew Janet, a very loving mother. We will keep your family in our prayers. The Woods Family, Pat, Yoli, Taylor and Libby.
Victoria Ramirez
November 30, 2010
To my mom in California,
We have been through so much together, and even if you did not agree with the choices I made in my life, you never turned your back on me, you loved me un-conditionally just as like your own daughter, and most importantly you never lost faith in me, even when I at times lost faith in my self . . . thank you for that.
I have so many wonderful memories with all of us, countless camping trips parking the trailer will never be the same lol, my sons 1st trip to Disney Land, the day trips to the beach, your visits to New Mexico, you sure knew how to plan the best family vacations. . . EVER! Christmas and Aunt Judy’s I will never forget, boy my son sure is lucky : ) I will think of you every time I am sitting by the beach reading a book, having our favorite SMORS by the fire, you where my favorite 3:00 Oprah partner ?. . . you will be missed!
There are so many things I needed to say to you, but the one thing I need you to know is how much I loved and respected you. After living with you threw out the years I saw what a strong woman, loving wife, DEVOTED mother and caring friend you truly are. You put your family first no matter what! Your husband, children and grand child where always your first priority, you worked so hard to make sure all of us never went without, you showed me the type of person/mother I need to be for Isaac. Thank you for being my friend, my mother, and even my warden at times lol. You have raised amazing children, there is not another person in the world I would choose to be my son’s father then Josh he is my son’s hero and his best friend. : )
Finally I need to say thank you for everything you have done for Isaac even at just five years old he will forever have tons and tons of great memories with his Grandma Kohlmeier, I promise to never let him forget how special he was to you and how much you loved him.
May you rest in peace . . . .
-Victoria- xoxoxox
November 30, 2010
Dear John & Family,
You already know what a special person Janet was. We will always keep her close in our hearts and remember the years of memories we had together. We are only a phone call away.
Love to you all,
Lisa & Gary Aalberts
Heather Peacock (Kohlmeier)
November 30, 2010
I was so sorry to here about this loss...I know that I have not kept in touch very well over the years, but I will never forget how wonderful my visits were as a child and how welcoming Aunt Janet was to all of us -- I remember feeling so happy on holidays there, and how she would let me sleep over with Joelle and Jenna...some of my earliest and best childhood memories were in your home. This is very, very sad news. My thoughts are with you all.
Sharon Boucher
November 30, 2010
Uncle Johnny...I know it has been a very long time since I saw you and Aunt Janet, but my memories of Christmastime at your home and other family gatherings are warm and wonderful. You both were always so kind to me, Heather, Nicholas, and Stephanie...you always made us feel so welcome and accepted and my heart goes out to you and the children at this extremely difficult time. I said a prayer for Aunt Janet and all of you that God will help you and comfort you now and always. Love, Sharon
Anne Richter
November 30, 2010
John and Family - Janet and I shared many of the same passions and I have been blessed to have known her. She will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her!
November 30, 2010
Uncle Johnny...I know it has been a very long time since I saw you and Aunt Janet, but my memories of Christmastime at your home and other family gatherings are warm and wonderful. You both were always so kind to me, Heather, Nicholas, and Stephanie...you always made us feel so welcome and accepted and my heart goes out to you and the children at this extremely difficult time. I said a prayer for Aunt Janet and all of you that God will help you and comfort you now and always. Love, Sharon Boucher (Gilbert, AZ)
Brenda Bordagaray
November 30, 2010
I sat across for Janet at worked. She has brought so much joy to everyone she met here, she was truly a wonderful person. I have to say just about every day she came into the office and would say "I have the best story to tell you". Mostly about Issac and what he did or learned at school or about her "crazy" pugs. Janet loved her family so very much. I want all of you to know you were her pride and joy and she prased you each and every day. Your wife, mother and grandmother will always be with you! God bless each of you! Brenda Bordagaray ~ Newbury Park, CA
DAVID KOHLMEIER
November 30, 2010
I'm so sorry Uncle Johnny, Josh, Joelle, and Jenna. All of my memories of Aunt Janet are so good.
-David
Sally, Kevin, and Elijah Eckert-Smith
November 30, 2010
Dearest Janet,
I am so grateful that our paths crossed when our children became wonderful friends and began to share memories. You raised a beautiful family of amazing children and although your time here with us was measured much shorter than we would have liked; you accomplished great things and orchestrated a beautiful love with John. We will be there for your family as you have done for ours and your memory will live forever in your children! Rest in peace sweet Janet!! You will be missed!
Tricia Backofen
November 30, 2010
John and family - Janet spoke often of her love for her family, children, and Issac. Janet was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed!
June Shafer
November 30, 2010
Dear Kohlmeiers, Your mom will always be with you in the memories you share. I am happy to have known her. My boys and I send our best wishes to all of you.
Julie Lansing
November 30, 2010
I will always remember going camping with our families and of course all the swim meets. Such great memories. Janet you were an amazing person and you will be missed.
Heather Thielen
November 30, 2010
You were like a second mom to me. I remember going to park day group, the pool club, Indian Maidens with you and Joelle. So many of my happiest childhood memories were at the Kolhmeier household. I'll always remember when we watched Princess Diana's funeral at 1 am together, when everyone else thought we were crazy and should just go to bed. You shaped one of my
best friends into a strong intellegent beautiful woman, a person who I've been able to rely on for guidance and support my whole life. You were an amazing woman and will never be forgotten. John, Josh, Joelle and Jenna- I love you all and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Beth Matel
November 30, 2010
While Janet was a part of my life for such a short time, we shared lovely memories of our families and our love for our dogs. She was an amazing, strong woman and will be greatly missed.
Barb Kaufmann
November 30, 2010
I was reading the obituary and realized Janet was born the exact same day as me - July 29,1953. Wow! And my middle name is Louise also. I'm sorry for her passing. She was too young. May fond memories help at this time of sorrow. God bless you all!
Joelle Kohlmeier
November 30, 2010
Mom,
I will love and miss you forever. You were the best mom ever and have taught me so much.
Rest in peace,
Joelle
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