Janet I. Vondett

Janet I. Vondett (nee' Kritsch), age 85, of Sterling Heights, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, August 10, 2025. Born on May 5, 1940, in Hammond, Indiana, Janet was the beloved daughter of the late Ervin and Irene (nee' Stocker) Kritsch. From an early age, she developed a love of learning and teaching, which would become the foundation of her life's work. Janet began her career at St. Luke Lutheran Church & School in Clinton Township, Michigan, and later served as a substitute teacher for Utica Community Schools. Even after "retirement," she continued to share her knowledge, believing deeply in the value of education and helping others grow. Music was one of Janet's greatest passions. She served for many years as organist, accompanist, and choir member at Trinity Lutheran Church in Utica where she was a member for many years. She was also a devoted traveler, an avid Detroit Tigers fan, and a loyal supporter of Michigan State University basketball. Above all, she cherished time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. On July 3, 1965, Janet married the love of her life, James Edward Vondett, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hammond, Indiana. They shared 58 beautiful years of marriage until James' passing in 2023. Janet is survived by her children, David (Iole) Vondett, Kristy (Jonathan) Decker, and Robert (Fran) Vondett; her cherished grandchildren, Daniela (Johnny) Selinski, Jacob Vondett, Jackson Decker, Reagan Decker, Madelyn Vondett, and James Vondett; and her great-grandchildren, Olivia and Luca. She was the loving sister of Karen (the late Paul) Jacusis, Paul (Dorothy) Kritsch, Daniel (Marian) Kritsch, and Susan (Dale) Rosenberg, and is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James, and her son, Joel. Janet's life was defined by faith, kindness, and service to others. Her legacy of love, music, and teaching will live on in the many lives she touched. Family and friends will gather to celebrated Janet's life with a visitation on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home 8459 Hall Road (3 Blks E. of Van Dyke) Utica from 2-8pm. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 11am from Trinity Lutheran Church 45160 Van Dyke Utica with a visitation starting at 10am. Janet will be buried next to her loving husband at Cadillac Memorial Gardens East, Clinton Township, Michigan. In memory of Janet donations to Trinity Lutheran Foundation 45160 Van Dyke Avenue, Utica, MI 48317 https://www.trinityutica.com/give