Janet Lee Beckemeyer, 69, passed away in Alton, Illinois, on January 15. A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 19, at Rochester Cemetery on West Main St. in Rochester, Illinois.

Jan was born on January 1, 1953, in Alton, Illinois, to Warren and Alva Beckemeyer. She graduated from Rochester High School. She also earned an associate degree from Wake Technical Community College. Prior to her death, she was pursuing a bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University.

One of Jan's defining characteristics was her kindness and respect for others, regardless of their background or circumstances. She learned American sign language to communicate with a friend. She knitted layettes for orphaned infants. She loved family history and spent many years volunteering her time to help others discover their roots.

Jan's greatest joy was her seven children and three grandchildren. She shared with them a love of learning, an appreciation of music, and a strong faith in God.

Jan is survived by her mother, sisters Susan (Jamie) and Carol, brother Steve (Barb), and children Melanie, Jeremy, Anna, Jacob, Erin, Sarah (Marc), and Elizabeth (Joshua). She also leaves three dear granddaughters, Alexis, Naomi, and Leia.

Donations to Jan's memorial fund can be made in her name to Wilson Park Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St., Rochester, IL 62563.