Janet Leigh

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our loving mother, Janet Elaine Leigh, age 88 of McHenry, Illinois formerly of Dyersville, Iowa. She entered into the presence of her Savior, our Lord, Jesus Christ, on Friday, February 20, 2026.

Janet was born on March 13, 1937, in Strawberry Point, Iowa, to her loving parents, Lyle and Mildred Kahrs. She grew up on the family farm with her grandparents and four siblings, where her love of animals and people was fostered among horses, cows, and chickens. As a teenager, she treasured time with her friends, Velma Hogan and Virginia Lorenz, often cruising the countryside in their car, the "Old Grey Goose." It was at a gas station near the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa that she met her first sweetheart, and the love of her life, Merle, and together they raised five children.

After traveling across the country for Merle's work in the 1950's, they returned to Dyersville, where Janet devoted herself to her home and family. Later, she moved to Illinois, building a new chapter of independence, working as a bartender, and forming many lasting friendships. She married Don Kowalkowski, and in later years, shared over 30 years with Don Sweda, enjoying companionship and life's simple pleasures.

Janet had a joyful spirit and kind heart. She adored the Chicago Cubs, liked music and dancing,loved to cook, and held dear to her beloved dogs. No matter where life led her, her children were always at the center of her heart, and she always held her love for them close.

Janet is survived by her children, Tom Leigh, Randy (Jeanie) Leigh and Traci Leigh, her brother, Neil (Mari Elmore) Kahrs, grandchildren Kristi (Tim) Leigh, Ethan (Elisa) Leigh, Chris (Lea) Daugaard, Holly (Thomas) Roemer, Christophor Carbrey, Austin (Emily Ragsdale), Nick (Olive) Leigh, Skyler (Kerry) McGrath, a daughter-in-law, Amy Leigh and many cherished great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as her longtime companion, Don Sweda.

Janet is reunited with her son, Brian Leigh, her daughter, Suzan Leigh, her parents, Lyle and Mildred Kahrs and her sisters, Jean Scott and Maureen Fullbright and a brother, Keith Kahrs, and her former husband, Merle Leigh who preceded her in death.

Janet will be honored for her unwavering love, her joyful spirit, and the strength she carried throughout her life. She now rests in the presence of her Lord, rejoined with those who went before her, leaving a legacy of faith, family, and love that will be carried in the hearts of all who knew her.

Janet will be laid to rest following a direct cremation, with services to be held at a later date at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa. Details of the service will be shared once arrangements are finalized.