Janice Rae "Jan" Straus

Janice Rae Straus, a beloved mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, at the age of 85. She was born on December 8, 1939, in Yankton, South Dakota, to Harold and Esther Hancock.

Jan graduated from Scotland High School in South Dakota before earning a degree in secondary education from Mount Marty University in Yankton. It was in the pursuit of her passion for teaching that she met Gilbert Straus. They were married on July 30, 1966, near her hometown in South Dakota. The couple shared 51 wonderful years together until Gil's passing in the fall of 2017.

Together, Jan and Gil embarked on a teaching journey that took them to Alaska early in their marriage, and later to the southeastern Wisconsin towns of Menomonee Falls and Sussex. Jan's love for teaching was complemented by her role as a home economics teacher, where she shared her passion for sewing.

Jan was an active member of her community, serving in local Catholic churches wherever they lived. She was a longstanding member of the American Association of University Women.

After they retired, Jan and Gil enjoyed their homes in Winter, Wisconsin, and Miramar Beach, Florida. They loved to travel, exploring nearly every state in their camper and flying to various destinations around the world. Together, they shared many joyful moments, including listening to, watching and attending baseball games.

Jan is survived by her loving son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Cherie Straus. She was a proud grandmother to Raegan, Logan, and Jaxon Straus.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends at Morning Star Senior Living in Billings, Montana, where Jan resided since 2019. Their kindness and care filled her final years with love and support.

As we say goodbye to Janice Rae Straus, we celebrate her life, a beautiful journey filled with love and an enduring commitment to education and family. She will be dearly missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those she loved.