Janice Joy Ihde

1941 - 2025

Janice Joy (Risley) Ihde

December 12, 1941 - November 23, 2025

Janice Joy (Risley) Ihde, a beloved educator, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, in Hales Corners, Wis. She was born on December 12, 1941, in Madison, Wis., and lived a life characterized by love, dedication, and a passion for nurturing the minds of young people.

Jan was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Lewis Ihde, whom she married on August 18, 1962, in Madison. Together they built a life filled with adventure, joy, and a commitment to learning and education. Jan is survived by her younger sister, Anna Risley; sisters-in-law, Audrey Risley and Gretchen Serrie (Hendrick Serrie); her daughters, Jennifer Ihde (Thomas Ihde) and Julie Strande (Mike Serdynski); as well as her cherished grandchildren, Taylor, Jacob, Haylie, and Benjamin, and her great-grandchild, Samad Jr. She also leaves behind a host of nephews and nieces.

A graduate of Madison West High School, Jan pursued her passion for education and earned a bachelor's degree with honors in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point in 1991. Her career in teaching spanned over a decade, working primarily at John Marshall Elementary School in Wausau, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless children. She was known as an engaged and enthusiastic teacher who deeply loved her job. Her dedication and compassion enriched the lives of her students, and she was known for nurturing their individual needs, fostering a love for learning.

Early on, after moving to Wausau, Jan was active in numerous community organizations and played a pivotal role in establishing a child and infant care center in the 1970s, demonstrating her commitment to the welfare of children and families in her community. Later in their careers, Jan and John created a summer program for teachers at the University of Miami in Oxford, Ohio, which beautifully combined her love of children's literature with his passion for science.

Jan enjoyed traveling, reading, and even building her own house (twice) alongside her husband. However, nothing brought her as much joy as spending time with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

A private family memorial will be held to honor Jan. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Wausau School Foundation (thefoundationwsd.org), which supports schools, teachers, and students with projects that may fall outside the district's budget capabilities. This organization reflects Jan's values of innovative learning and compassion for helping those in need.

In her later years, Jan received compassionate care at The Woods assisted living facility. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff there, particularly Janet Ransdell and Dianna Marcks, who have created a supportive and caring environment for all residents. The family is also deeply grateful to the team at Zilber Hospice, including nurses Rachel, Jacqueline, Jackie, and Jennifer, for their loving, compassionate and professional support for both Jan and family during her final days. In addition, the family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to John Leszczynski and Schaff Funeral Services for honoring both their and their parents' wishes during this difficult time with dignity and respect.

Jan Ihde will always be remembered for her dedication to education, and her commitment to family. Her legacy of compassion, love, and teaching will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her deeply.