Janice Elaine Bootz

Janice Elaine Bootz, 78, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025.

She was born March 23, 1947, in Michigan City to the late Harold Herbert Emery and Vivolene Naomi (Krassow) Emery. Jan graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City in 1965.

Jan began her career with her husband and son, running the front counter of A&J Auto Parts in Trail Creek for 16 years. She became a caregiver in her own home for her mother and husband, and eventually began working for Comfort Keepers where Jan was able to share her gift of nurturing those in need until her retirement in 2020.

Jan enjoyed working in her yard, tending to her flowers, and gardening. She was a gifted artist who showcased her talent through drawings, mainly of people, animals and food.

Jan's greatest source of pride and joy came from her family, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was very involved with her family and loved to keep up with their active lives. Jan will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who will be dearly missed.

On March 27, 1965, Janice married Adolph O. Bootz, who preceded her in death in 2001. She is survived by their children, Elaine (Scott) Aigner of Hanna and Jeffrey (Shirley) Bootz of Mill Creek; grandchildren, Ashley (Matthew) Schroll and Mark (Amber) Keen; five great-grandchildren; one niece; and one nephew. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Vivolene Mary Leeds and Margaret Laverne Lewalski.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Wanatah Funeral Chapel, 309 N. Main St., Wanatah.