Janis L. Reck

1931 - 2026

JANESVILLE, WI - Janis Lorraine Reck (née Dietrich), age 95, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, following a short battle with cancer. A lifelong entertainer, ringleader, and accomplished card shark, Janis brought warmth, wit, and joy to every room she entered. The angels are surely having more fun now - and brushing up on their bridge skills.

Born January 8, 1931, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Janis was the youngest of three children of Raymond and Irma (Hoernke) Dietrich. After graduating from Bay View High School, she attended a UW-Madison extension program in downtown Milwaukee and began her professional career at Liberty Mutual Insurance Company before stepping away to raise her family.

Janis was an active member of Ascension Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, where she sang in the Senior Choir and met her husband, Willard Reck. They married in 1954 and raised two children, Jennifer and Tom.

In 1978, Janis began what she proudly considered the highlight of her career at Johnson Hill Press in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. Starting as an Administrative Secretary, she was soon promoted to Executive Assistant to the President, managing conferences and events nationwide with exceptional organization and flair. During this time, she also served as Chapter President of the Executive Women International Board. She retired in 1995.

A devoted bridge player, Janis played - and won - well into her final weeks. She also enjoyed travel, performing, and summers at the family cottage on Blue Lake in Minocqua, Wisconsin.

Janis is survived by her children, Jennifer Hurley (Brian) and Tom Reck (Kari); grandchildren Jonathan Hurley and Nicole Abendroth (Ryan); and great-grandchildren Caleb, Ben, and Lily Abendroth.

Visitation will be held Saturday, February 28, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, Janesville, Wisconsin, with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. Memorials may be made to the church's Music Fund.

HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.henkeclarson.com.