Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Janice Simmonds Obituary

Jan. 29, 1955 - Sept. 23, 2009 Age 54 of St. Paul Preceded in death by her beloved father Stanley Simmonds. Survived by her husband Jerry Trooien; daughters Victoria & Alexandra; son Walker; Mother Frankie; sister Charmaine (David) Wolf; brother Michael (Sheri) Simmonds; nieces, nephews, cousins and many adoring friends. Janice was both noble and rare. She was a woman of living questing deeds, paired with the virtues of courage, compassion, and loyalty. She would not back down from anything or anyone. Her passion and energy were beautiful gifts that enriched us all. Always her power was directed to uplift human life. Today and always, so many hearts will feel empty with Janice's passing, yet they will remain so filled from the love and power she gave. Janice, we do miss you! Visitation 4-8PM, Sunday Sept 27 at Willwer-scheid Funeral Home - 1167 Grand Ave. St. Paul. Private family interment at Spirit Hills Cemetery in Jordan, MN. Celebration of Her life will be held at the Sheraton Hotel Woodbury, MN on Thurs. Oct 1st 6PM, remembrances at 7:09PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Children's Hospital, Jeremiah Program or Lake Hubert Conservation Association. 651-228-1006


To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Pioneer Press from Sep. 25 to Sep. 27, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Janice Simmonds

Sponsored by VSS.

Not sure what to say?





Lee Bush

September 19, 2023

Thinking of my bubbly, beautiful Aunt Fanny today (as she was often called while I was a teen) and remembering when she brought me a HUGE duffel bag filled with clothes that she'd grown tired of ... but not just clothes! Purses, several pairs of, earrings (some I still have even now, 50 years later!), an earring tree, and some lovely hair accessories. As the oldest of many children, and growing up wearing school uniforms, I never had many extra clothes, so this was like both Christmas and birthday to me! But it wasn't just the gifting of it ~ it was the time she spent with me, going through everything, having me try things on, showing me how to match up outfits, helping me determine where I could alter a pair of pants for a better fit, etc.
She always made me feel special, and that she was happy to see me. I think most people felt that way around her. It was a very unique quality she had. She is still very loved and missed.

Eleanor Lee Bush

January 19, 2013

I miss you my dear old friend.

Barb Roberts

July 22, 2012

Missing this great lady today...

Victoria Simmonds

June 5, 2011

You missed a beautiful wedding yesterday Mom. Gregg and Bridget made it official and it was wonderful to have the whole family together for the weekend. However, your absence was impossible to ignore. There were hundreds of smiles and beautiful moments and I thought to myself countless times how much joy you would have found in the day.

I miss you more today then ever.
xo
-Baby #1

walker simmonds

January 18, 2011

i miss her very much 2

walker simmonds

January 18, 2011

my mom janice was a very wonderfull person, i miss her very much thank u all for such wonderfull fealings we all feal the same if u r reading this thank u agian. Are family is staying in there. thank u all!!!

Jim Laitinen

August 21, 2010

So sorry - we just found out. We all loved Janice here. She always inspired and entertained us with her energy, enthusiasm and sense of humor. She was always a delight to work with. She will be sorely missed. From all of us at The FrameWorks.

Christine McDonald

October 26, 2009

Dear Jerry, Victoria, Alex and Walker,
Please accept our deepest sympathies. We were very blessed to have Janice in our life when we lived in Minnisota. We will keep all of you in our prayers.
May the love of God be with you all.
Christine and Catherine McDonald

October 16, 2009

Dear Jerry,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Janice. I knew she was fighting her hardest to beat her illness. I will never forget the graciousness you both extended to Frank and I when we came to your beautiful home. What a extremely talented woman she was in designing. My thoughts and prayers are with you Jerry and your children. Diane Hanzal

Shirley

October 5, 2009

I'm lonely. I miss Janice terribly.

Lu Penn

October 1, 2009

Dear Jerry, Victoria, Alex & Walker
You all are in my prayers always. I will miss her and I had grown to love her dearly. Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning. Janice is in a better place with out pain & without struggle. She will always be in your hearts and in your memories Keep her alive and well there always.
Love You

October 1, 2009

Dear Jerry & family,
So very sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful wife. Our thoughts are with you.
Denny & Holly Harnish
Alexandria, Mn

September 30, 2009

Jerry and Kids:

I am very sorry to hear of Janet's passing. I admired her strength over the last few years and know that her strength will live on in your lives.
Robin Kincaid

Lisa Erickson

September 29, 2009

"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things." Phillipians 4:8

Although this lovely being was a breath of fresh and uplifting air, Janice Victoria will live on in our hearts and memories.

She had the indelible ability to touch you uniquely once - or a hundred times.

" .... whatever is true ... whatever is lovely and admirable ... we will cherish Janice's authentic spirit and her old soul.

Peace be with her and her family.

A garden will not go unnoticed without being grateful to have shared the warmth and the determination of her being.

Hank Salmen

September 29, 2009

Victoria, Alex, and Walker
I am so sorry. Your mom always made me feel important. Everyday will be a new adventure in your lives and each day your mom will be in your hearts as well as ours. I love her and will miss her everyday.

With Love,
Hank Salmen

September 28, 2009

Dear Victoria and Family, I'm so sorry for your tremendous loss. I didn't know your Mom, but it's quite clear that there is one very special Angel to watch over you. You will be in my prayers, as always. Love Greg and Audrey Mansourian.

USB Corp Real Estate Group

September 28, 2009

Jerry and family: Please except our sincere sympathies in the passing of your wife / mom. On behalf of our St. Paul Property Management group please know you are all in our thoughs and prayers at this most difficult time.

Denise Reuss

September 28, 2009

Dear Jerry and family,
My heart felt sympathy goes out to you. To me Janice was a kind person with endless energy and time for each and every person. You are lucky to have such a special "angel" to look upon you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Tammy Hayman

September 28, 2009

Dear Jerry, Victoria, Alex and Walker -
I am so sorry to hear of Janice's death. She was a wonderful person who brought fun and light to all those around her. I will miss her, I will miss her energy. She is sure to remain an example to me of a beautiful person, inside and out.

Renee Sonka

September 27, 2009

Victoria, Alex and Walker,
I am so very sorry that you are having to go through this. The entire MPA community shares in your loss. Your mother’s legacy lives through each of you.
Love,
Renee Sonka

Lisa Woodruff

September 27, 2009

Dear Jerry, Victoria, Alex and Walker,
My thoughts are with you as each of you work to focus on whatever gives you comfort. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to provide support,especially for Alex and Walker.
I hope you will be surrounded by the love of friends and family.

Ms. Woodruff

Chad Sardi

September 27, 2009

Walker,
I am sorry about your mom. I thought she was really nice and funny. I want to get together with you as soon as you are ready. I will call you.
Your friend, Chad

Wendy Laudon

September 27, 2009

Janice was one of those rare people who was not afraid to let her light shine. Even when we were young girls growing up together, I always thought she was exceptionally wise. Truly an old soul, yet she had such a playful little girl laugh. It's been many years, but when I close my eyes and remember her, the very first memory that comes is of her beautiful smile and that laugh. I feel very blessed to have that gift from her.

-Wendy Weckman Laudon, Burnsville, Minnesota

Hannah Arsenault

September 27, 2009

Alex:
I'm so sorry to hear about this. Even though I never truly knew your mother, I know how much you loved her. Stay strong sweetie.

Erika Perrault

September 26, 2009

Jerry, Victoria, Alex, and Walker,
We are so sorry to hear about Janice. Our memories of her are: the most welcoming person at MPA, first day of school at your bus stop with coffee and pictures, soccer saturdays with conversation and spirit, and generally the most life and warmth and vitality you can ever expect from anyone. Janice's generosity of spirit and down to earth nature would be missed, except for we know how it lives on through the amazing three children. We are so grateful to have had time with her.

Gay-lynne Lange Dover

September 26, 2009

Dear Frankie, Charmaine and Mike:
I am very sorry to hear about Janice.
I have fond memories of having Janice as a friend when we were kids. If I recall correctly, my mom made Janice's wedding dress. I remember my mom and uncle telling me about the fun time and the laughs they had with Janice while she was getting her make-up on and getting ready for her wedding in Jordan. Janice always kept us laughing and she was a lot of fun to have as a friend in our younger days. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Celeste & Kerri Ryan Verschoor

September 26, 2009

There are no words to express how sorry we were to hear of Janice's passing. She was an extraordinary woman and a fiercely devoted mother. Our hearts and prayers go out to her family.

Chreese Jones

September 26, 2009

Dear Walker,

Although I have only had the pleasure of meeting and speaking to your mother on two occasions, I could tell immediately that she was a strong and very caring person. It was clear that she meant what she said AND could back it up. I could also tell that she loved you very very much.

Hold close to the special gifts and memories your mother left you.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Mrs. Jones

Shannon Hutton

September 26, 2009

Jerry, Victoria, Alex and Walker,
Janice was one of the most power-filled and extraordinary women I have ever known. I felt it the first time she shook my hand. Janice was truly real......and she sure knew how to make me laugh! Janice will be missed. Shannon

Jenni Christensen

September 26, 2009

So sorry to hear of your loss!! She was a great woman!! I'll never forget her from Odyssey of the Mind! My condolences go out to the family.

September 26, 2009

Janice is the most wonderful awesome lady that I have ever known. I love her dearly and always will. Her garden will live on in memorie of her for as long as you let me care for it. I miss her more everyday. Your friend, Marti

Gale Bush

September 26, 2009

Its rare in life to know someone who inspires us. Janice was that person.
With ALL her wisdom,strength,energy & caring love, she gave to ALL of us.
She was the joy that makes us say yes, I want to be like that,I can do it.
We will never forget her.
Love & Prayers to ALL her family.
Gale Bush & Family

Nick Dodge

September 25, 2009

Janice was one of the most inspirational and influencial people have ever met. She always seemed to have the natural ability to guide people in the right direction.I feel honored to have spent time with Janice and her beautiful family. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jerry, Alex, Walker, Ms. Victoria and her entire family.

Ruth Nasseff

September 25, 2009

Dear Jerry, Victoria, Alec, Walker, Frankie & family,

The heavens are truly smiling. Their incredible gain is, so sadly, your incredible loss. A loss which is also felt by everyone who knew this extraordinary, wonderful and gifted lady. She fought with such courage, it was truly remarkable. To Alec, Walker and Victoria: Your mom will be forever with you and guiding you throughout your lives. She was always so proud of each and every one of you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time and may God's love help to heal your broken hearts

Love, Ruth & Emily Nasseff

Lee (Eleanor Vivian) Bush

September 25, 2009

Jerry, Victoria, Alex, and Walker, I thought I would share one of my favorite memories of Janice:

I met Janice in the mid 70's when I was a teenager. She was dating my uncle, and became "Aunt Fannie" to the entire family.
One wintery Saturday, my uncle Johnny called to tell us a meat market in Minneapolis was broadcasting from their store on WCCO, and that they would give free steaks to any woman who showed up in a bikini. He said he was driving, and Janice was going to go, and did I want to go too? Well, of course I said "yes", so they picked me up and we were off. It was very snowy and cold that day, so we were wrapped in parkas and blankets. When we got to the market, we fixed ourselves up pretty in the parking lot, then ran in with our coats wrapped tightly. Once inside, we took off our coats and posed prettily for the butchers. They said we were the only gals that had taken them up on their offer, and that we were fine examples of St. Paul womanhood. Janice and I giggled all the way home about our adventure. We ended up bringing enough steak home to feed everyone in my family (all 7 of us!), plus John and Janice, with leftovers to boot. Free steak tastes the best!

I know you must have lots of wonderful memories of her that can be a comfort to you. I hope others share their memories as well, so you can continue to feel a closeness to her in your heart.

Janice will be missed so much. Her thoughtfulness, creativity, strength and determination will continue to be an inspiration to me, and her love of life and positive attitude is something we all could aspire to.

Chris Howard

September 25, 2009

Condolences to you and your family.

Pete Johnston

September 25, 2009

I have known Janice for nearly all of my life and whenever I think of her a smile comes to my face. She was very compasionate and kind hearted yet had the courage of a lion. I feel very fortunate that I had the opportunity to know her. She has been a great roll model to many who had admired her and she will be greatly missed!

Pete & Natalie Johnston & Family

Nansee Greeley

September 25, 2009

Victoria, Alex and Walker,
I am so sorry to hear about your mom. You were all very strong throughout her sickness. She was lucky to have each of you. I miss seeing your smiling faces at MPA.

Ms. Greeley

Debbie Leland

September 25, 2009

Jerry and family sorry for your lost. Janice was a very sweet lady. we are all glad we got to know her. Our thoughts and prays are with you and your family at this time of sorrow. From all The employees at Team Parking.

Cindy Carlson

September 25, 2009

When I think of some words to describe Janice, I think: bold, confident, engaging, beautiful, upbeat, funny, energetic, kind, capable, optimistic.
And I see the color pink!
Janice really lived life large, and has made us all the better for it. I'm thankful for the gift of her life, and join in the sorrow for her passing.

Diane Johnston

September 25, 2009

Jerry, Victoria, Alexandra, & Walker:
I am so very sorry.

Kim Blair

September 25, 2009

Dear Jerry, Alex, Walker, Victoria, Janice's mother and family,
We will forever hold Janice and you in our hearts. May God grant you peace, comfort and the fondest of memories.
Kim, John, Ed and Ellie Blair

Kiki Sonnen

September 25, 2009

Jerry - I was sorry to learn of your wife's passing. She sounded like a wonderful woman. I know you and your family must have wonderful memories of joyful times with her.

Sue Neutgens

September 25, 2009

Janice was the sister to my dear friend Charmaine. We had many wonderful times together during high school and later in our married years. We are all Jordan girls and forever she will remain as one of those girls that forever leaves footprints on your heart.

Sue Zaun Neutgens

June Schatz

September 25, 2009

I will miss Janice coming to our office as a patient. She always wanted to know how you were doing despite the fact she didn't feel good herself. She always had an upbeat attitude through out her cancer journey.

Tim & Gayla Trooien

September 25, 2009

Jerry and Children,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss of Janice. Our thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow. She will be missed by all who have known her, she was a remarkable woman.

Tim & Gayla

Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results

Make a Donation
in Janice Simmonds's name

Memorial Events
for Janice Simmonds

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Willwerscheid Funeral Home & Cremation Service - Grand Avenue Chapel

1167 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105

How to support Janice's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Janice Simmonds's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more