Janice Wardell-Southwell, born May 29, 1964, in Nisswa, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, in her hometown of Nisswa. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and the enduring beauty of connection—both to people and to the land she called home.
Janice was the cherished daughter of Jean and Jon Wardell and spent most of her life surrounded by the serene woods and lakes of Northern Minnesota. She grew up at Charjon Cottages, the family resort nestled in what she fondly referred to as "God's Country." It was there that her deep appreciation for nature, community, and hospitality took root.
Her professional journey reflected her generous spirit and tireless work ethic. Janice cultivated a long-standing career in the service industry, where she brought warmth and grace to every role she held. She later channeled her culinary talents into owning and managing a catering business, delighting countless guests with her superb cooking. In her later years, she became a beloved presence at The Pickle in Nisswa, where locals and tourists alike were drawn to her welcoming smile and quick wit. Her retirement marked the end of an era for many who had come to know her as a fixture of the community.
At age 19, Janice met John Southwell—the love of her life. Though life led them down separate paths for a time, their bond endured. Years later they reconnected, rekindled their love, and were married on April 15, 2016. Their wedding celebrated not only their union but also the enduring themes that defined their relationship: Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever After.
Janice will be remembered for her loving and gentle spirit, infectious sense of humor, deep devotion to friends and family, and unwavering affection for animals. Her kitchen was often filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals—a place where everyone felt welcome.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Jon Wardell. She leaves behind her devoted husband John Southwell; her beloved niece Allie Wardell; her brother Jay Wardell; many members of the Southwell family; lifelong friends Carrie, Merri Jo, Vickie—and so many others whose lives she touched deeply—as well as her two cherished pups, Tillie and Gus.
A celebration of Janice's life will be held in Spring 2026 in Nisswa, Minnesota, date and location to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Croix Hospice in honor of Janice's memory.
May her legacy live on through the joy she brought to others and the love she so freely gave. We miss you, Janice.
Janice was the cherished daughter of Jean and Jon Wardell and spent most of her life surrounded by the serene woods and lakes of Northern Minnesota. She grew up at Charjon Cottages, the family resort nestled in what she fondly referred to as "God's Country." It was there that her deep appreciation for nature, community, and hospitality took root.
Her professional journey reflected her generous spirit and tireless work ethic. Janice cultivated a long-standing career in the service industry, where she brought warmth and grace to every role she held. She later channeled her culinary talents into owning and managing a catering business, delighting countless guests with her superb cooking. In her later years, she became a beloved presence at The Pickle in Nisswa, where locals and tourists alike were drawn to her welcoming smile and quick wit. Her retirement marked the end of an era for many who had come to know her as a fixture of the community.
At age 19, Janice met John Southwell—the love of her life. Though life led them down separate paths for a time, their bond endured. Years later they reconnected, rekindled their love, and were married on April 15, 2016. Their wedding celebrated not only their union but also the enduring themes that defined their relationship: Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever After.
Janice will be remembered for her loving and gentle spirit, infectious sense of humor, deep devotion to friends and family, and unwavering affection for animals. Her kitchen was often filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals—a place where everyone felt welcome.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Jon Wardell. She leaves behind her devoted husband John Southwell; her beloved niece Allie Wardell; her brother Jay Wardell; many members of the Southwell family; lifelong friends Carrie, Merri Jo, Vickie—and so many others whose lives she touched deeply—as well as her two cherished pups, Tillie and Gus.
A celebration of Janice's life will be held in Spring 2026 in Nisswa, Minnesota, date and location to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Croix Hospice in honor of Janice's memory.
May her legacy live on through the joy she brought to others and the love she so freely gave. We miss you, Janice.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Janice Wardell- Southwell, please visit our flower store.
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