Janet E Caise

Janet Ellen Shenk Caise passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on February 12, 1933, in Braidwood, Janet's life was one of service, love, and joy, which touched the hearts of all who knew her.

The daughter of the late Arnold and Thelma (Sprowles) Shenk, Janet grew up on the Shenk family farm in Custer Park, where she learned the values of hard work and dedication. She carried these values throughout her life, from her early education at Reed Custer High School to her nurturing career in nursing. After high school, Janet pursued her passion for helping others by attending Silver Cross Nursing School, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong vocation.

Janet's professional journey as a nurse began in earnest at the Braidwood Nuclear Station and Silver Cross Hospital. In 1977, Janet found her true calling as a school nurse for the Reed Custer School District, a role she embraced until her well-deserved retirement.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Janet's personal life was rich with love and companionship. She married the love of her life, Richard Caise, on December 26, 1953. Together, they celebrated 48 years of marriage until Richard's passing in 2002.

Janet's love for life extended to her interests and hobbies. She had a keen eye for a good deal and delighted in finding bargains on QVC and Lands' End. Her love for shopping was only matched by her enjoyment of dining out, a pleasure she often shared with her close-knit circle of friends and family. These simple joys were the backdrop to the countless stories and laughter that Janet shared with her loved ones.

Janet's legacy is carried on by her siblings, Arlene Corneils and Jim (Carol) Shenk, and her adoring nieces and nephews, Sherry Underhill, Larry Corneils, Cathy DeClerck, Michael Caise, David Shenk and Jill Mann. Janet was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Richard, and her nephews Steven and Kim Caise.

Memorials may be made in Janet's name to either the American Cancer Society or to Morris VFW Post 649.

A memorial gathering for Janet will be held on June 18, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the UC Davis-Callahan Funeral Home in Morris. A celebration of Janet's life will start at 6:00 pm. Janet will be laid to rest at a later date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.