Janice "Jan" M. Messerschmidt

Janice “Jan” M. Messerschmidt, 82, De Pere, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, April 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Jan was born on June 16, 1943, in Green Bay, a daughter of the now late Clement and Mary (Parmentier) Westerman. She attended East High School where she met the love of her life Paul Messerschmidt and graduated in 1961. On July 13, 1963, the two were married at St. Matthew Catholic Church. Jan began her career as a bookkeeper and later managed the books for her husband Paul’s business at Johnston Opticians. She went on to work with the Wisconsin Women’s bowling Association, where she dedicated many years before retiring. She found joy in the outdoors and had a true gift for gardening. Her flower beds were always thoughtfully tended and beautifully in bloom from spring through fall. Jan also enjoyed golfing and was active in both a couples bowling league with Paul and a women’s bowling league with her sister, Mary Ann, and friends. She was especially known for her cooking, lovingly preparing meals that brought family and friends together around the table. Whether it was a favorite dish or something new, her kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, and care. Jan loved taking long walks while enjoying the beauty of nature and the art of conversation with her loved ones. Above all, Jan cherished her family. Whether gathered by the backyard pool or simply spending time together, those moments meant everything to her. Jan was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and a friend to many. Faith was an essential part of who she was. Just as she carefully tended her gardens, nurturing them with patience and care, she lived out her faith in the same way, quietly, faithfully, and with a love that helped others grow, passing those roots of faith down through her family. And now, that life she lived has become her reward, as she is cared for in the presence of Jesus. Jan will always be lovingly remembered and sorrowfully missed. Janice is survived by her husband, Paul; her 4 boys: Rob (Chad Viegut) Messerschmidt, Mark (Lisa) Messerschmidt, Michael (Laurie) Messerschmidt, Daniel (Treena) Messerschmidt; 8 grandchildren: Sarah (Phil), Anthony (Bailey), David (Kim), Sydney (Tim), Rachael (Edward), Nicholas, Lauren, Nora; 5 great-grandchildren; and her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann (Dennis) Fidler. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by one grandson, Joshua; two brothers, Bill (Sandy) Westerman and Bob Westerman. Gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Saint Matthew Catholic Community, 130 St. Matthew Street. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 A.M., with Father Bob Kabat officiating. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Unity Hospice, especially Melissa, Kathy, and Nihm, for their compassionate care and devotion shown to Jan. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Janice "Jan" M. Messerschmidt

June 16, 1943 - April 19, 2026