Janet Mae Rothrock

JANET MAE ROTHROCK Janet Mae (Fisher) Rothrock, 91, Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 17, 2025, reuniting with her beloved husband, John. Born November 18, 1933, in Wellington, Kansas, to David G. and Lillie E. (Bellmon) Fisher, Janet grew up with a deep appreciation for education, music, and community.  She graduated from Wellington High School and went on to Kansas State Teachers College (now Emporia State University), where she played in the orchestra, sang in the chorus and other ensembles, and was active in Alpha Sigma Tau sorority. On August 14, 1955, Janet married her high school sweetheart, John G. Rothrock. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and partnership. After beginning their life together in Lawrence, where Janet taught at Cordley Elementary School, they moved to Topeka in 1957. There, she became one of the very first teachers at McCarter Elementary School. John and Janet raised two sons, John Steven "Steve" and James Gary "Jim." During those busy years at home, Janet poured her energy into supporting her boys, serving as a Den Mother, PTA board member at Maude Bishop Elementary, and campaigning for projects that enriched the lives of local families, including the Ken Berry baseball fields. She later returned to teaching, sharing her love of learning with students at Crestview Elementary and Lowman Hill Elementary. Janet and John shared a lifelong love of KU football and basketball, cheering on the Jayhawks together and passing that passion on to their family. Together, Janet and John built a rich life not only through family and work but also through their shared passion for square dancing. They held leadership positions in their local clubs, served as presidents of the Kansas Square Dance Association, and represented Kansas on the national stage as educational chairpersons for the United Square Dancers of America. In retirement, Janet continued to dedicate herself to service. She volunteered with Our Savior's Lutheran Church, ERC, Doorstep, and the Shepherd's Center of Topeka. She and John also enjoyed monthly golf outings with their church community. Her love of music remained a constant in her life, as she joyfully rang with the Jubilante Bell Choir and sang with the Melodears Women's Chorus. Janet is survived by her sons, Steve (Cindy) Rothrock and Jim Rothrock (Kay Williams); grandchildren, Brady (Kiersten), Ally, and Jaeden; great-grandchildren, Win and Witt; and a wide circle of dear friends who will miss her kindness and unwavering spirit. A visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka, KS 66614. A private family inurnment will be at Prairie Lawn Cemetery, Wellington, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 2021 SW 29th Street, Topeka, KS 66611. Janet's life was a gift to everyone who knew her, and her legacy of love, music, and service will continue to echo in the lives of her family and community. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.