July 12, 1940 ~ February 6, 2026
Janet Sue Westendorf age 85 of New Hampton, IA, died Friday, February 6, 2026, at MercyOne New Hampton Medical Center.
A Graveside Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 13, 2026, at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg with Rev. Paula Hemann officiating.
Friends are invited to greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton.
Janet Sue Westendorf, known affectionately to family and friends as Janet, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in New Hampton, Iowa. Born on July 12, 1940, in Waterloo, Iowa, the daughter of Roland and Bessie (Garner) Smith. Janet was a beacon of kindness and dedication throughout her 85 years of life. Her journey began in the humble town where she was born, and it was there that she established the foundation of an admirable life, characterized by her loving nature and selfless spirit.
Janet’s early years were marked by her exceptional athleticism, as she shone as a standout basketball player at Finchford High School, graduating in 1958. Her passion for education and sports propelled her to continue her studies at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, where she further honed her skills and prepared for a future of service and community involvement.
Her professional journey commenced at PAG in New Hampton, where she took on the role of a secretary. It was during this time that Janet’s life became intertwined with Marvin Westendorf’s. They married on a beautiful summer day, July 10, 1971, at the United Methodist Church in New Hampton. From their union came a daughter, Crystal, who would become the joy and center of Janet’s world. Although Janet and Marvin’s paths as a couple diverged, they retained a close friendship that endured the test of time.
Janet’s career transitioned to the heart of the community when she began working for the New Hampton public schools, also as a secretary. For 35 years, Janet was a pillar of reliability and dedication, her work ethic and proficiency earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and the community alike. Upon her retirement in 2005, Janet left behind a legacy of commitment and excellence that continued to inspire long after her departure.
Beyond her professional life, Janet was a woman of many interests. Her Christian faith was a guiding light, providing her with strength and comfort throughout her life’s journey. She found solace in tending to her garden, a testament to her patience and nurturing character. Helping on the farm, she demonstrated her connection to the land and the cycles of nature. Janet’s home was a reflection of her meticulous nature, always tidy and clean, a sanctuary for those she loved.
A tremendous cook and baker, Janet’s culinary talents were a gift she generously shared with friends and family, her recipes and dishes weaving their way into the fabric of countless cherished memories. But above all, her role as a mother and grandmother was where Janet’s loving, kind, and selfless traits shone the brightest. Raising her daughter and helping raise her grandchildren was not just a duty but a profound joy that she embraced wholeheartedly.
Janet’s legacy is one of unwavering love and selfless acts of kindness. She touched many lives with her warm spirit and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her.
Janet is survived by one daughter, Crystal Westendorf of New Hampton, IA; two grandchildren, Shelbie (Chase) Jermeland of New Hampton, IA, John (Olivia Kleppe) McKimmy Jr. of Hawkeye, IA; one brother, Charles Smith of Altoona, IA; two sisters, Rita Faber of Ionia, IA, and Helen Kottke of Fredericksburg, IA.
She was preceded in death by her parents; ex-husband, Marvin Westendorf; three brothers-in-law, Paul Faber, Alvin Westendorf, and James Kottke.
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