Janice "Jan" M. (Volhard) Thurs

Janice “Jan” M. Thurs, 79, Edgar passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 10, 2021, at U.W. Hospital, Madison.

She was born May 13, 1942, in Marathon, daughter of the late Anton and Clara (Skrzypchak) Volhard.  On February 10, 1962, she married Anthony “Tony” Thurs, the love of her life, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marathon.

For many years Jan worked at Stettin Mutual Insurance Company, Boehm Insurance Company and the Village of Edgar.  Her strong work ethic, and upbeat attitude also helped Tony with the family ginseng farm.  Jan also enjoyed being a girl scout leader and was the co-owner of TJ’s Youth Center in Edgar.

Jan showed us all that you can raise a family, work hard, play hard, and give back to your community. And she did it all so elegantly, seemingly effortlessly and with much joy. When Jan said “YOLO” as she often did, she meant it.

Living her best life in retirement, Jan enjoyed traveling, bowling, going to the Swim Center, crocheting, knitting and crafting, and canning her famous pickles.  And every year was highlighted by baking and decorating Christmas cookies with her beloved grandchildren.

Jan also enjoyed going to the “Shack” on Lake Nokomis, fishing, and camping with family and friends at her favorite place, Rock Dam.  Above all Jan absolutely cherished time with her family, especially with her grandchildren.

Loved by all who met her, Jan exuded beauty and joy inside and out. Her dazzling smile was warm, welcoming, and full of fun. The blessed memories she created with friends and family will be cherished forever.

Survivors include her husband, Tony Thurs, Edgar, her children, David (Sue) Thurs, Edgar, Connie (Brad) Hanson, St. Mary’s Point, MN, Tammy (Jim) Anderson, Wausau and Jamie (Luke) Koehler, Edgar, her grandchildren, Caley (Jon) Stahel, Tessa Thurs, Hannah Olson, Jaron Olson, Cole and Garrett Hanson, Jacee (Ben Kellner) Anderson, Justin and Julia Anderson, Malana, Brooks and Taya Koehler and her great grandchildren, Kingstyn, Adley and Mick Stahel, her sister, Donna (Eugene Stahel) Otto, Wausau and many nieces and nephews.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Rueben Ahlquist and a brother-in-law, Fred Otto.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 17, 2021, at St. John Catholic Church, Edgar.  The Rev. Alan Wierzba will preside.  Burial will be in the parish cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services all at the church.  There will be a parish rosary service at 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the church.  In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Jan's name.  Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Edgar is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com