Janet Wanninger

Jan Wanninger, 81, life-time Rockford resident, passed away on December 10, 2023. She suffered from advanced Alzheimers and injuries from a fall at home. She was born on May 23, 1942 to Adolph and Fannie Anderberg. Jan graduated from West high school and attended classes at Rockford College. She met her future husband, Ronald Wanninger, while both working at the Rockford Courthouse. They were married September 15, 1962 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church where they are still parishioners and have made many lifetime friendships. Ron and Jan had two children, Steve and Lori. Jan was a stay-at-home mom who loved to cook dishes from around the world, did watercolor painting, and was a Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader. She also taught ceramic classes in the home for many years. Jan enthusiastically supported her children's sports interests. After her children were grown, she was approached by Father James Cordone to establish and direct Shelter Care Ministries, an organization to assist the homeless. The program grew immensely but after 16 years she decided to retire with Ron. Jan and her family enjoyed a lifetime of travel including throughout the U.S., Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and Europe. She especially enjoyed spending their February's in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Jan is survived by her husband, Ron and children Steve and Lori (Brent) and two grandsons Zach and Owen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph and Fannie Anderberg.
Memorial services will be held Friday, December 15th at 11am at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 412 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61103. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family encourages memorials to be made to Shelter Care Ministries, 218 7th Street, Rockford, IL 61104. To share a memory or condolence please visit olsonfh.com.