Janette I. Wootan of Mesa Az., died peacefully at home on August 26th, 2024 where she had been under the care of her daughter Becky and Hospice of the Valley.
Born February 16th 1934 in Wichita, Ks., daughter of Fred Gilbert and Reva America Morris. She graduated from Colby High School in 1951. After graduation she moved to Salina and attended Brown Mackie College. She then went to work for the attorney’s office at Hampton, Royce, Engleman, and Nelson for 9 years. After leaving the law firm, Janette continued to follow her passion for law and completed her career working as a transcriber for court reporters for 35 years.
Janette belonged to TOPS for many years and was a weight recorder for the group. Through her participation, she met her lifetime and loving friend, Jody Highsmith. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren. Janette was a great grandparent, always supporting the endeavors of her grandkids, taking the time to teach them how to make perfect pancakes, and allowing them to steal sips of her coffee while she worked. Her favorite color was purple, and she loved to collect jewelry, specifically rings with amethyst stones. Can’t forget how much she loved to crochet, and all of the afghans and dolls she made. During these last few years, she enjoyed her word search books, and coloring. The cherished memories shared with Janette will forever remain in our hearts.
Janette was preceded in death by her parents, brother Cato Gilbert, sister Janice Kuhn, sister Joan Lee, and her cat Eleanor that she loved so much. She is survived by her children Debra (Mike) Burcin, David (Janey) Wootan, Brian (Nathan) Wootan, Bruce Wootan, and Rebecca (Joe) Smith. 10 grandchildren Aaron Neber, Matthew Neber (Charlotte), Clark Tanner Smith (Misty), Tiffany Smith (Bradley), Brandy Heidrick, Cassandra Wootan (Dean), Brady Strange, Katie Canty (John), Michael Burcin (Michelle), and Sara Burcin. 6 Great grandchildren Dru Hoagland, Spencer Baumstark, Josie Burcin, Brayden and Easton Krenz, Emelia Canty, and two upcoming arrivals soon, whom she would have loved so much.
Our family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by Hospice of the Valley-especially Denise, Melissa, and Shannon.
A visitation was held on August 30th, 2024.