Willard Janzen
Willard Janzen, 74, died Dec. 20, 2001, at his home in Newton. The son of the late Henry and Susie (Reimer) Janzen, he was born Dec. 19, 1927, at Newton.
He grew up in the Goessel community and graduated from Goessel High School in 1945. He was married to Mary Ellen Matthies on May 21, 1950, at Halstead. She survives, at home.
He worked in the parts department of the Chevrolet agency in Newton until December 1951. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served four years at Amarillo, Texas. He attained the rank of staff sergeant. After returning to Newton, he worked in the mobile home industry for 34 years. He was production manager for 25 of those years. He retired in May 1990. An active member of First Mennonite Church, Newton, since 1958, he also was a member of Christian Co-Workers Sunday school class. During retirement years he enjoyed golfing, visiting friends, and traveling.
Other survivors include two sons, Dana of Newton and Doyle of Tehachapi, Calif.; two sisters; and three grandchildren.
Services were held Thursday at First Mennonite Church, Newton, with pastors Clarence Rempel and Rusty Bonham officiating. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery.
Memorial funds have been established in his name with the American Cancer Society or Central Homecare and Hospice.
