Jan Carpenter

Jan Carpenter, aged 83, of Vassar, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at her cherished home on the Cass river, surrounded by the loving embrace of her family. Born on December 11, 1941, in Saginaw, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Pauline (Hiser) Hutchinson. Jan's early life was shaped by the nurturing care of Curtis and Emma Schlicht, who raised her on the Schlicht farm in Vassar. She carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life.
Jan was a proud graduate of Vassar High School, where she forged lifelong friendships. Her career spanned more than a quarter of a century at Delphi, where she served as the Health and Safety Union Representative. Jan's dedication to her role was unwavering, and she achieved the groundbreaking distinction of becoming the first international women's union representative in her field. Her colleagues at Delphi honored her as the hardest working woman they knew, a testament to her tireless advocacy for worker safety and well-being.
Beyond her professional achievements, Jan was deeply passionate about the arts. She devoted many years to painting and set design, contributing her creative talents to the Ann Herzberg Dance Studio. Her involvement in wardrobe and set creation brought joy to countless performances.
Jan's zest for life was not confined to her work and artistic pursuits; she was an avid bowler, Detroit Tigers Fan, Bingo player, snowmobile enthusiast, and motorcycle rider. She also enjoyed crocheting. Her love of the outdoors extended to her garden, where she found serenity among her plants and bird feeders. Travel was another of Jan's joys, as she explored new places and cultures, always with a sense of adventure. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. She relished family gatherings, where she could be found sharing stories and laughter over a drink with friends and relatives.
Jan's legacy lives on through her beloved children, Ron (Pernilla)Carpenter, Debbie (Bob) Frost, and Jerry Carpenter. Her grandchildren, Cassandra (Mitch), Gustav, Robert III (Rachael), Chad, Vaughn, Shane, and Jordan; 5 great grandchildren, who will carry forward her spirit of love and determination. She also leaves behind her siblings, Kurt, Pam, Tim, and Lynn and several step siblings who will miss her deeply. Jan was preceded in death by her brother Ron, in addition to her parents and the Schlichts.
A memorial service to honor the vibrant life of Jan Carpenter will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, December 11th, 2025, at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, located at 9940 Saginaw Street in Reese. The service will be officiated by Donna Hankins. Friends and family are invited to gather and share in the celebration of Jan's life on the same day, from 11 a.m. until the time of the service, at the funeral home.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider American Diabetes Association or the Ann Herzberg Dance Studio. Please make checks payable to Ann Herzberg Friske
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored that the Carpenter family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one. Condolences to the family may be made through our website at www.wswfh.com