Janice Sponder

Sponder, Janice (nee Zakrzewski) passed away unexpectedly Friday, July 28, 2023 at age 76. Dear mother of Bonnie (late Patrick), Karen (Richard) and Daniel (Jaimie). Adoring busia of Corissa, Daniel, Allison (Jared), Collin, Emily, Kaylee Riann, Ada, and Zoey. Proud great-grandma of Cory Joseph “CJ”, Stella, Jaydin and Jemma. Also loved by nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and dear friends.

Janice grew up in Milwaukee. She attended SS Cyril and Methodius Grade School and Notre Dame High School (class of 1965). She kept in touch with many classmates over the years and enjoyed getting together with them regularly.

Aside from her love of planning road trips and camping excursions, Janice looked forward to starting her mighty vegetable garden from seed every spring and always planted enough tomatoes to feed the entire city. When she wasn’t tending to her garden, she was sure to be enjoying a hot summer day cooling off and relaxing in her beloved swimming pool of 43 years. Janice was also very skilled at sewing and was happy to fix a loose seam, replace a zipper, or mend a cherished stuffed friend. Her creative homemade embroidered gifts will be treasured forever. Lastly, condolences to her neighborhood canine friends who will surely miss the treat lady while taking their walks. She was one-of-a-kind and will be dearly missed by all.

Memorial gathering at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue on Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Private burial on Friday, August 11, 2023 at Forest Home Cemetery Prairie Rest Area.

In lieu of cut flower arrangements and to honor Janice’s mindfulness of protecting and restoring the environment, live plants appreciated or memorial contributions to the Sierra Club.