Janice Kay Nelson's Obituary
Mrs. Janice Kay Nelson, age 82, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026 in Muskegon, Michigan. She was born in Muskegon on April 24, 1944 to Lloyd and Eunice (McNelly) Vandelier. Janice began her career with the Credit Bureau after earning a degree in IBM Keypunch. She later devoted herself to raising her two sons, John and David, taking time away from her career to focus on her family. Once her boys were grown, Janice returned to school and fulfilled her calling by becoming a Registered Nurse. Throughout her nursing career, she served patients at North Ottawa Community Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Brookhaven, and the Grand Rapids Veterans Hospital before retiring. Janice lived a life centered on caring for others, always placing their needs before her own. Her dedication to helping people was evident both in her profession and in her daily life. She enjoyed gardening, NASCAR, sewing, and, most of all, spending time with her family. During her sons’ younger years, she especially cherished her role as a Cub Scout Den Mother, creating many fond memories. On May 20, 2026, Janice married Peter Larnel Rowan, and he survives her along with her son, David (Beth) Nelson; daughter-in-law, Melanie Nelson; grandchildren, Patrick Nelson, Kevin Smith, and Christina Smith; great-grandchildren, Gavin and Dakota; and sister, Virginia Ann (Doug) Wilke. She was preceded in death by her parents and son, John Nelson. SERVICES will be 2:00 PM Monday, June 15, 2026 at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 with VISITATION one hour prior to her service. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. Janice’s family wishes to thank the staff at Harbor Hospice Poppen Residence for the wonderful care, kindness, and compassion shown to Janice. You may sign her online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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