Thelbert William Janzen (1924-2017)

Thelbert William Janzen was born in a blizzard, married in a blizzard, and swore he’d die in a blizzard as well. But the sun was shining Sept. 30, 2017, when, after 93 years of life and love, the Lord finally welcomed him home.

Born March 22, 1924, to Herbert and Inez Janzen of rural Lorraine, Thelbert spent his life devoted to the farm and family he loved. Whether he was feeding his calves, planting sunflowers in the garden, or beating his grandchildren at dominoes, he did everything with the gentleness and quiet humor for which he was well loved.  

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Melvin and Vernon; and great-grandson, Dalton Ploutz.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Darlene Bedwell Janzen of rural Geneseo; their four children Lonnie (Harry) Vopat of Paola, Gloria (Karl) Ploutz of Kanopolis, Michael (Valerie) Janzen of Geneseo, and Pamela (Bill) Parsons of Ellsworth; their 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; his dog Tater; and his cat Mocha.

Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 4, with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Parsons Funeral Home, Ellsworth.

The celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 5, at First Baptist Church, Lorraine with burial following in the Lorraine Baptist Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dalton’s Heart Walk, in care of the funeral home, PO Box 45, Ellsworth, Kan. 67439.

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