Janet Herron

Janet L. Herron, beloved wife, mother, Grammie/Meme, sister, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the age of 75.

Janet spent most of her childhood in Ankeny, Iowa, growing up with her four siblings. Her siblings fondly remember summer days spent riding their bicycles from Ankeny to their Grandma Evan's farm in Polk City, stopping at a gas station along the way for their favorite snacks-Cheetos and Pepsi. They shared clothes, laughter, and a love for TV heartthrobs like Dr. Ben Casey. As they grew older and life took them in different directions, Janet remained a steady and loving presence. Her heartfelt thank-you notes, her grace in taking on family projects, her thoughtful "Forever Gifts", and her incredible seamstress skills are all treasured memories that continue to bring comfort and joy.

As a child, she also cherished time spent with her grandparents, Grandma and Grandpa Ballard, at their cabin in Outing, Minnesota, on Lake Washburn-sewing, baking, and fishing by the lake-as well as on Grandma Evan's farm in Polk City, doing a lot of those same things. These moments became treasured memories that shaped her warm and nurturing spirit.

In 1968, Janet met the love of her life, David Herron, at White Oak Church. Janet and her sister, Shirley had befriended the pastor's daughter, Frances Adams, who had a van and would take them to and from the church youth events. It was during these gatherings that Janet's love for the Lord-and for David-began to grow. They married in 1969 and began their journey together with little more than their deep love and commitment to one another. Over the years, their bond only grew stronger, especially as they welcomed their two sons, Christopher and Jason, into the world. Janet was a fierce an unwavering supporter of her family, always putting their needs and happiness above all else.

Janet became a grandmother at the young age of 38 with the birth of her first granddaughter, Stephanie. She embraced her role with grace and joy, cherishing each of her seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Janet had a calm, loving, and giving way of being there for each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild-offering quiet strength, gentle guidance, and unconditional love.

She provided her family with a strong spiritual and educational foundation. Janet firmly believed that "through Him all things are possible," and built her family on that grounding. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and a source of comfort and strength for those around her. She took great pride in nurturing the minds of her grandchildren, often hosting "Meme School" to ensure they had a solid start in their education.

Janet showed her love through the gift of her time. She cherished every moment spent with her family-teaching them how to sew and bake, playing cards, and exploring the beauty of Minnesota's North Shore. Her family fondly recall times spent with Janet and how she shared the magic of the North Shore with them-providing home cooked meals of freshly made cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy and pan-fried walleye. The North Shore held a special place in her heart, offering her peace and comfort. She delighted in bringing her family to her favorite spots, sharing the joy and serenity she found there.

Her passing leaves a large hole in the family that will be hard to fill. Yet, Janet has given her loved ones the tools to carry on-faith, love, and the reminder to focus on what matters most in life: each other.

She is preceded in death by her parents Wilbur and June, and granddaughter Stephanie.

She will be forever missed by her husband of over 56 years, David; children, Christopher (Sandy), and Jason (Shannah); grandchildren Richard (Paula), Nicholas (Taylor), Hannah, Oliver, Lillian, and Miles; great grandchildren Quinn, Emmerson, and Stephanie; siblings Dennis (Diane) Evans, Shirley Burgess (Gregg Howell), Shelley (Chuck) Ponxs, and Joyce (Bernie) Allison; and many beloved nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.

She will be remembered for her kindness, her devotion to family, and the legacy of love, faith, and learning she leaves behind.

A service celebrating Janet's life will take place Saturday, July 26th at 11:00 am at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, 55127, with a visitation an hour prior.