Janet Kay Carsten

Janet Kay Carsten, a woman of love and deep faith, passed away peacefully at her home in Durand on November 19, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on November 30, 1939, in Owosso, Michigan, she was the only daughter of the late Ivan V. and Agnes (Ware) Friend. Janet's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of family bonds.
After graduating from high school, Janet married the love of her life, Phillip Dale Carsten, on February 7, 1959, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Gaines. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to each other. Janet's professional life was dedicated to nurturing young minds as she retired from Byron Area Schools, where she served as a beloved librarian at the elementary school.
Janet's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was an active and devoted member of her church community, where she found great solace and purpose.
She enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society, making quilts and traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada with Dale.
Janet's legacy is carried on by her husband, Dale, and their loving children, Jeanne (Alistair) Thomas, Joe (Barb) Carsten, Doug (Carol) Carsten, Carol (Rodney) Pollard, and Rick (Karla) Carsten. Her spirit will forever be cherished by her grandchildren, Nick (Ashley) Carsten, Justin Carsten, Rebecca Wymer, Will (Meredith) Wymer, Erin Carsten, Stephanie Carsten, Celina (Jeff) Velez, Shay (Jon Post) Pollard, Carson (Ellie) Pollard, Kaylyn Carsten, Kadie Carsten, and Kirby Carsten, as well as her great-grandchildren, Cohen Carsten and Vincent Velez. She also leaves behind her brother, Bernard Friend, sister-in-law, Shirley Friend, and many loving nieces and nephews. Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Ivan and Agnes, and her brothers, Eugene and Ron Friend.
Janet's family extends heartfelt gratitude to her long term caregiver, Peggy Schlushler, as well as the staff of Memorial Healthcare Hospice, for their compassionate care and support.
Funeral service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 at 11:00am at Durand Church of the Nazarene, 9725 E. Monroe Rd. Durand. The Carsten family will receive friends at the church beginning at 9:00am, graveside service will be at 2:00pm at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Owosso.
Memorial contributions in Janet's name can be directed to the Byron Elementary School Library.
Condolences can be shared at WatkinsFuneralhomes.com