January 15, 1947 — September 9, 2024
Mason City
Janelle Kay Scheller, 77, of Mason City, died on Monday, September 9, 2024, at The Good Shepherd Health Center. Per Janelle’s request, cremation has taken place. No services are scheduled at this time.
Janelle Kay Brink was born on January 15, 1947. She was the first child of Donald Leroy Brink and Opal Irene (Carre) Brink. She was married to Don Scheller from 1977 to 1989.
Janelle was an extremely bright individual, who earned her teaching degree at the University of Northern Iowa and later achieved her master’s degree in education from the University of New Mexico.
Janelle taught elementary students first in Iowa and then for the rest of her career in Tohatchi, New Mexico, for the Navajo Nation. She was committed to empowering her Navajo students. After her retirement she moved to Farmington, New Mexico. Later her health deteriorated, and she moved to a care center.
Janelle was a lifelong animal lover, who took great care of her horses, dogs, and cats. She was intellectually curious, read insatiably, loved all animals, deeply appreciated nature, loved hiking, and enjoyed listening to many musical genres.
She lived a good life.
Janelle is survived by her brother, Doug Brink; her nephew, Shane (Jes Corkill); niece, Jessica (Jeremy Jewell) and her two grandnephews, Wayne and Emmett.
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