Janis Wilson

Janis “Jan” Wilson, age 84, passed away on June 16, 2025 at Generations at Neighbors Nursing Home in Byron. She was born in Rockford on October 13, 1940 the daughter of Otto and Mary (Patten) Novak. She graduated from Pecatonica High School where she was a cheerleader. After high school, she attended business college before beginning a career at Woods in Oregon until she retired. She married the love of her life, Robert Wilson on July 3, 1960 and they built a beautiful life together until he preceded her in death on July 1, 2003. Jan loved her family and was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who always made sure those around her felt loved and supported. She loved attending sporting events for her grandchildren and never missed a game. Jan loved the outdoors and spending time camping. She was competitive when it came to board games and she enjoyed dancing. In her spare time; she liked to wind down with a crossword puzzle. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, Donna Neblock and children, Diana O’Brien and Craig Wilson. She is survived and missed by her children, Tracy Manering of Byron and Scott (Michelle) Wilson of OR; sister, Lynne Kinnamon of Rockford; grandchildren, Justin Klapp, Nathan Klapp, Nicole Manering, Amanda Swanson, Shawna Sedols-Voss, Mark Voss, Eric Wilson, Amber Wilson, Zack Wilson, Kaylan Wilson, and Kris Wilson; and 24 great grandchildren. A graveside service will be held at Willwood Burial Park in Rockford on Thursday, June 19, 2025 at 12:00 PM with Pastor Gary Cortese officiating. A celebration of life will be held at the Barn on the Hill, e, 7 IL-72, Leaf River, IL 61047 on June 19, 2025 from 3:00 to 7:00 PM. Memorials are established in her name.