Janet-Haynes-Obituary

Janet Haynes

Grand Rapids, Michigan

1945 - 2020

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Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Haynes (Soderberg), The Hon. Janet A. 9/21/1945 - 12/16/2020 Grand Rapids age 75, of Grand Rapids, MI, died on 12/16/20, after a purpose-filled life of adventure, accomplishments, boundless love, and service to family, friends, and the community. Janet was deeply loved and is survived by her...

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My older brother Frank use to kid Janet, Diane and Nan about being Zerrener's Angels from the popular TV Show. They were all young attorneys then. Now Heaven has a new standard! I only hope the other angels can keep up with the Judge's wit, wisdom and energy. The legal community will miss you. Dick Oole

Dear Erin, Kelsey, and family,
There are not enough words in the world to describe your mom and grandmother and sister. She was an amazing human being on so many different levels and made such a positive impact on so many that she touched. We loved having her attend our quarterly judges’ luncheon when we ventured out to local restaurants pre-COVID. She always came with such exuberance and joy for life and made all of us laugh with her stories and anecdotes and affection for us and you!...

I met Janet at a grief recovery course after having lost my son. Several of us continued to meet for dinners for a few years after that course. I won't forget her kindness, craziness (who tap dances at that age! hahahah), wisdom and love. She will truly be missed. You're in my thoughts at this very sad time.

I recall an instance of Janet's heart and humanity. We were on opposite sides of a contentious divorce case years ago. All I remember was Janet taking her client's hand and quietly talking to her, like a nurse to a patient. Of course, she was a nurse! That's what made her a great lawyer and a great person. She had the human touch.

I have such wonderful memories of Judge Haynes; especially as a judge in Family Court. I had many court cases before her and she was such a wonderful and caring Judge. She truly cared about her thoughtful decisions for children and their families. I will miss her smiling and friendly face.