Jan Deer

Jan Susan Bachrach Deer passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026 in Saddlebrooke, Arizona, surrounded by family. She was a devoted educator, a passionate advocate for science education, and a loving wife and mother. Jan's dedication to teaching and her years of service as a science educator inspired countless students over a career spanning 40 years.

She was born in Faribault, Minnesota to Thomas Robinson Bachrach and Jeanne Marion Foss. She was raised in Omaha, Nebraska, and later earned her Bachelor of Science Education from the University of Kansas in 1970 and spent much of her life in Wichita, Kansas. Her love for teaching extended beyond the classroom, as she volunteered in numerous community organizations, including the League of Women Voters, Project Graduation, and National History Day, among others. Jan and Montie have resided in Saddlebrooke, Arizona since 2014.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Timothy Murray Bachrach and Charles Thomas Bachrach.

Jan is survived by her husband of 55 years, Montie Deer; daughter, Sarah (Neal Axton) of Lawrence, Kansas; and son, William of Nashville, Tennessee along with many friends and family. In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Kansas Humane Society (https://kshumane.org/) or Senior Village of Saddlebrooke (https://seniorvillage.org/donate/).

Click this link to view additional details about Jan's life https://my.gather.app/remember/jan-deer