Jeanette Peltier

Jeanette Peltier (nee Roth) passed peacefully on Saturday afternoon, October 9, 2021.  Family and friends wished her goodbye while sharing fond memories and funny stories.

Jan was born in Cadott, Wisconsin on November 6, 1926.  She was a farm girl at heart who preferred walking barefoot while enjoying the feel of dirt between her toes.  Jan looked forward to her many trips to the farm, where she visited her beloved family and relatives.

Upon graduation from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, Jan embraced teaching opportunities across the United States.  Marriage to Thomas H. Peltier was the reason Jan made Milwaukee, Wisconsin home.  Here Jan and Tom raised four girls.  (Jan met Tom while teaching in Escanaba, Michigan and ran into him years later while working for the Wauwatosa, Wisconsin school district.)  Jan was an active volunteer who made a difference through dedication, enthusiasm and innovative programs.  Jan’s motto was “Make new friends, but keep the old.  One is silver and the other gold.”  She cherished the time with everyone who crossed her path.

Jan’s vocation during her golden years was bridge, bridge and more bridge.  Her fingers were calloused from the many hands shuffled and played.

Jan was a voracious reader. Her day was incomplete when Jan didn’t have her newspaper, a crossword puzzle and her nose in a book or two.

Jan always had time for the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers.  She was known to turn down a social engagement when a game was scheduled, and not answer the phone during a game.

Jan is survived by her daughters Anne Peltier (Bill Kegler), Mary Knaak (Guy), Susan Peltier and Laura Pelter (Eric Lehmer); and grandchildren Alison Hequet (Gus) and Scott Kegler.  Also surviving are numerous close relatives in Wisconsin and beyond.

Jan’s family and many dear friends around Milwaukee and across the country will miss Jan’s smile, wit and dry sense of humor.  Jan wants all to smile and chuckle when thinking of her.  She asks that your tears be for the good times and laughable moments.

Here’s Jan’s take on aging gracefully.

Due to COVID precautions, memorial services will be private.  Jan will be interred next to her husband, Tom, at Holy Cross Cemetery in Escanaba, Michigan.

Jan was passionate about Girl Scouts.  In honor of Jan, if you wish, please send memorials to the Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast for support of the Jo Ann Mann Lodge at Camp Silverbrook.