Janis Wallace

Wallace, Janis Bernien

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janis Bernien Wallace at the age of 57, on January 25, 2015, while surrounded by family. Jan was born in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, to John and Kathryn Bernien. She received her nursing degree from North Dakota State University and dedicated her life to caring for those in need. Jan raised two children in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with her former husband, Robert Wallace. She instilled in them her love of animals and nature, which inspired both children to go on to obtain doctoral degrees in veterinary medicine from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After raising her children, Jan followed her dream of living near the turquoise Caribbean water, and moved to Key West, Florida. There, she continued her path in nursing, providing care at a clinic for women. In her final years she moved to Fort Myers, Florida, to be closer to family. She had an amazing spirit and made lifelong friends everywhere she went.

Jan was a beloved mother, sister, daughter and friend to many. She is survived by her father, John Bernien, sisters, Mary (Bob Vethe) and Nancy (Rod Powell), and children Ryan (Betsy Schulz) and Chelsea. Her grandchildren Grant, Meta, and Maggie will dearly miss playing at the beach and reading stories with their "Gramma Jan". Jan is preceded in death by her mother, Kathryn Bernien, and beloved sheepdogs, Garbo and Eli.

Jan was diagnosed with cancer in 2013. Having a medical background, she understood the battle she faced. Over the past two years she bravely faced numerous surgeries and multiple rounds of chemotherapy. Those that knew her would have barely noticed she was ill. She continued to travel, kayak, spend time with family, and enjoy the warm Florida weather. Beating cancer does not necessarily mean remission; rather, she beat cancer by living every last day to its fullest with a smile, while caring more for others than herself.

A memorial service will be planned in Key West, Florida where her ashes will be returned to the turquoise water she loved. A memorial scholarship fund will be established in her name at the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine to continue her giving spirit and support future animal lovers. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to this fund, which can be made to the UW Foundation-Janis B. Wallace Memorial Scholarship Fund, U.S. Bank Lockbox 78807, Milwaukee, WI 53278.