In Loving Memory of Janel Louise Haug
February 2, 1959 – February 20, 2025 | Age 66
Our cherished mother, Janel Louise Haug, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Her life was marked by profound love, steadfast strength, and a quiet dignity that enriched every life she touched.
Born on February 2, 1959, in Hays, Kansas, Janel was the treasured daughter of Virgil and Louise Windholz and a devoted sister to her seven siblings. From an early age, she radiated a creative passionate spirit— always eager to perform, design, and express herself with an innate sense of style. Her playful, sneaky nature and deep commitment as a sister forged enduring bonds within her family.
A proud graduate of Ness City High School, Janel nurtured her artistic dreams through studies in cosmetology, interior design, and a myriad of crafting pursuits. Her creative spirit seamlessly carried over into her professional life as an agribusiness bookkeeper, where her dedication and attention to detail were evident in every task.
Yet, above all her endeavors, she cherished her roles as a mother to her five remarkable daughters, the sons she gained, and as an adoring Grannie to her 16 treasured grandchildren. Her pride in her grandchildren was palpable—she delighted in their achievements, their growing independence, and the promise of their futures, often sharing heartfelt stories of their unique talents and joyful moments. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her family, celebrating every accomplishment and milestone with profound joy and steadfast support.
She is lovingly survived by her daughters: Stephanie Shapland (Clint) of Scott City, Stacey Colbert (John) of Dodge City, Sara Thummel (Justin) of Plainville, Shannon York (Josh) of Scott City, and Shelby Hawkinson (Cole) of Ness City.
Her legacy also lives on in her grandchildren: Madison, Sebastian, Eric, Kendall, Hailey, Peyton, Dillon, Lillian, Greysen, Kaisen, Rowen, Olin, Levi, Cash, and Adley; her parents, Virgil and Louise of Ness City; her sisters, Karen Avery (Bob) of Wamego, Sharon Shields (Terry) of Houston, Myra Pfannenstiel (Craig) of Wichita, and Amy Jacobs (Neal) of Wichita; and her brothers, Virgil Windholz of Salina, Dave Windholz (Lori) of Ness City, and John Windholz (Stacy) of Bel Aire.
In a final, tender reunion, Janel now joins her grandson, Cade Andrew Thummel.
Visitation for friends and family will be on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City. Celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Ness City. A luncheon and a graveside ceremony to follow, where we will gather to celebrate and honor her extraordinary life. Memorial contributions can be made to Janel’s Grandchildren Education Fund.
Janel’s unwavering faith and gentle strength carried her through many challenges, and her compassionate support was a beacon for those in need. Her nurturing love, enduring resilience, and artistic soul continue to inspire and guide all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit lives on in the laughter, love, and memories of her daughters and grandchildren, as her legacy of grace and beauty flows on through each of them.
We will forever remember her radiant light and hold her close in our hearts.
Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guestbook at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.