Mary Jane "Janie" Gartner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Mary Jane “Janie” Gartner. Janie passed away peacefully at Larchwood Inns on January 23, 2026.

Born and raised in Fall City, Nebraska. Janie then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and graduated as a dental hygienist, where Janie met the love of her life, her late husband Thomas Ludwig Gartner. They got married on February 12th, 1960. Together they moved frequently; Janie worked as a dental hygienist briefly in Nebraska, Kansas, and Utah, before choosing to settle in Grand Junction in 1967 to raise their family. She spent most of her life in Grand Junction, a town she loved dearly. She was a member of the Grand Junction Newcomers Club, where new residents were welcomed into the community. She was also a member of the Treasurer of Bridge house Auxiliary, an organization that provides services for adults experiencing hard times. She was dedicated to her children and her husband. Janie was always full of life, and her vibrant spirit radiated to everyone around her.

She is survived by her three children, Kimberly Lowdermilk (Keith), Robin Dresen (David), and Mark Gartner (Kim). As well as four grandchildren, Dustin, Hannelore, Josh and Nikki. And eight great-grandchildren, River, Miko, Vera, Naya, Rylan, Sammie, Gracie and Boaz.