Janice R. Holthaus

Janice R. Holthaus, 83, of Beattie, KS, passed away Wednesday afternoon, May 7, 2025, at University of Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, NE.

Visitation took place on Sunday, May 11, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Kinsley Mortuary.  A rosary service was held later that evening at 7:00 p.m. at St. Malachy’s Catholic Church in Beattie.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, at St. Malachy’s Catholic Church, with Father Quentin Schmitz officiating. Music was provided by Laura O’Neil and Veronica Olmsted, featuring selections such as “Prayer of St. Francis,” “Here I Am, Lord,” “Fill My Cup, Lord,” “Be Not Afraid,” “Ave Maria,” “On Eagle’s Wings,” and “How Great Thou Art.”  Serving as pallbearers were Kent Schwarz, Courtney Cassidy, Tim Hill, Kelly Fitzgerald, Nick Mayes, and Dave Roever.  Burial followed at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery north of Beattie.

Janice was born on June 15, 1941, in Axtell, KS, to Arthur F. and Beatrice L. (McMahon) Rueger. She attended Barklow Country School and graduated from Beattie High School in 1959.

After high school, Janice worked in Lincoln, NE, for three years before returning to Beattie. She devoted many years to raising her family and later worked as the Secretary at Beattie Elementary School for the Marysville School District until its closing.

On December 29, 1962, Janice married Lynn C. Holthaus at St. Malachy’s Catholic Church in Beattie. She was a dedicated member of St. Malachy's, active in the Ladies Guild, and involved in numerous community activities.

Janice was a superior mother and friend—always ready to help, always caring for others to the very end. She was a Master Quilter, a Perfecter of the Casserole, an Outstanding Creator of the Perfect Cinnamon Roll with Raisins, and best by far at making Frozen Chocolate Cake. She was deeply loved by all who knew her and was always there to lend a hand, whatever the task.

From devoted farm wife to school secretary to faithful church member, Janice gave her all without hesitation. Whether feeding cattle, hauling hay, or cutting tall heads out of the milo fields, she did it all without complaint—and sure enough, three times a day, everyone was fed.

She loved spending time with her family, socializing with friends, quilting with the “ladies,” and staying active on the farm. Her faith was central to her life, and she selflessly served her church in many roles over the years.

With all the memories and life lessons she shared, Janice leaves a legacy that her family will cherish forever. She was the greatest mother and grandmother a family could have asked for. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered for the endless care she gave to everyone blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Joann Heiman; and her brother, Jim Rueger.

She is survived by her husband, Lynn Holthaus; daughter, Debra (Larry) Mayes; sons, David (Leslie) Holthaus, Doug Holthaus, and Dennis Holthaus; brother, John Rueger; grandchildren, Kelli (AJ) Govert, Kashli (Rex) Diedrich, Holly Holthaus, Diane Mayes, Rachel Holthaus, and Nick Mayes.

A memorial fund has been established and will be designated later. Contributions may be sent in care of Kinsley Mortuary, P.O. Box 147, Marysville, KS 66508.