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Video Memorial Bulletin Audio
Janis Eve Stoecker
Janis Eve Stoecker, a beacon of love and a guiding light to all who knew her, passed away peacefully in Eugene, OR on November 20, 2024. She was born in the small town of Eureka, SD on March 18, 1944, and her journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to family, faith and education.
Janis was the cherished daughter of Harold Heilman and Evelyn Wenzel Heilman, and she grew up in an environment that fostered her lifelong love for learning and community involvement. She graduated from Eureka High School before continuing her education at Northern State College, and later earning a master’s degree at the University of Oregon. Her passion for education blossomed into a fulfilling 35-year career as an elementary school teacher, first in Missoula, MT, then in Bremerton, WA with a majority of her career spent teaching in Eugene. Finally, after her retirement, Janis couldn't stay away from the classroom, and for the next fifteen years on occasion, she continued to substitute teach.
On June 11, 1966, in her hometown of Eureka, Janis married her beloved spouse, John William Stoecker, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their union of 58 years was blessed with two wonderful children, Kimberly Stoecker of Beaverton, OR, and Shawn Stoecker of Lowell, OR. Janis's joy was multiplied with the birth of her grandson, Kaden Stoecker-Boynay, whom she adored with all her heart.
Family was the cornerstone of Janis's life, and she was a loving sister to Thomas Heilman, who passed away March 6, 2017. Her family ties extended beyond her immediate circle, as she cherished every moment spent with relatives and friends, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Janis's interests were as varied as they were passionate. Her voice was a staple in the Grace Lutheran Church choir, where she sang with devotion and grace, as well as, over the years attending bible study groups. As a child, she spent time ice skating in the winter, and swimming in the summer in Eureka Lake. As an adult, she embraced the joy of movement through aerobics, swimming, hiking, and even running – completing several 5K and 10K runs and a marathon. Her love for the outdoors and nature was matched only by her love for animals; throughout her life, she cared for cats, dogs, and various types of birds with tenderness and compassion. Travel was another of Janis's pleasures, and together with John and sometimes with friends, she explored many different countries, some including Italy, Turkey, The Holy Lands, Germany, The Dominican Republic, China, Canada, and numerous places throughout the United States. She also embarked on several cruises in her life. Each journey was an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to appreciate the diverse tapestry of humanity.
Those who knew Janis would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and thoughtful. Her presence was a comfort, her advice was sought after, and her actions were always guided by a deep sense of empathy and kindness. She lived her faith through service, her love through action, and her thoughtfulness through the countless lives she touched.
As we bid farewell to Janis Eve Stoecker, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and profoundly impactful. Her legacy of love, education, and faith will continue to inspire and guide us. She has left this world for her heavenly home, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved and served. Janis's life was a testament to the power of kindness, the strength of family bonds, and the enduring light of a soul dedicated to the service of others. She will be deeply missed and eternally remembered.
SERVING IN WORSHIP:
Pastor: Joe Baumgarten
Organist: Linda Gurney
Choir Director & Soloist: Paula Walker
Pianist: Neil Patton
Janis Eve Stoecker, a beacon of love and a guiding light to all who knew her, passed away peacefully in Eugene, OR on November 20, 2024. She was born in the small town of Eureka, SD on March 18, 1944, and her journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to family, faith and education.
Janis was the cherished daughter of Harold Heilman and Evelyn Wenzel Heilman, and she grew up in an environment that fostered her lifelong love for learning and community involvement. She graduated from Eureka High School before continuing her education at Northern State College, and later earning a master’s degree at the University of Oregon. Her passion for education blossomed into a fulfilling 35-year career as an elementary school teacher, first in Missoula, MT, then in Bremerton, WA with a majority of her career spent teaching in Eugene. Finally, after her retirement, Janis couldn't stay away from the classroom, and for the next fifteen years on occasion, she continued to substitute teach.
On June 11, 1966, in her hometown of Eureka, Janis married her beloved spouse, John William Stoecker, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their union of 58 years was blessed with two wonderful children, Kimberly Stoecker of Beaverton, OR, and Shawn Stoecker of Lowell, OR. Janis's joy was multiplied with the birth of her grandson, Kaden Stoecker-Boynay, whom she adored with all her heart.
Family was the cornerstone of Janis's life, and she was a loving sister to Thomas Heilman, who passed away March 6, 2017. Her family ties extended beyond her immediate circle, as she cherished every moment spent with relatives and friends, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Janis's interests were as varied as they were passionate. Her voice was a staple in the Grace Lutheran Church choir, where she sang with devotion and grace, as well as, over the years attending bible study groups. As a child, she spent time ice skating in the winter, and swimming in the summer in Eureka Lake. As an adult, she embraced the joy of movement through aerobics, swimming, hiking, and even running – completing several 5K and 10K runs and a marathon. Her love for the outdoors and nature was matched only by her love for animals; throughout her life, she cared for cats, dogs, and various types of birds with tenderness and compassion. Travel was another of Janis's pleasures, and together with John and sometimes with friends, she explored many different countries, some including Italy, Turkey, The Holy Lands, Germany, The Dominican Republic, China, Canada, and numerous places throughout the United States. She also embarked on several cruises in her life. Each journey was an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to appreciate the diverse tapestry of humanity.
Those who knew Janis would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and thoughtful. Her presence was a comfort, her advice was sought after, and her actions were always guided by a deep sense of empathy and kindness. She lived her faith through service, her love through action, and her thoughtfulness through the countless lives she touched.
As we bid farewell to Janis Eve Stoecker, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and profoundly impactful. Her legacy of love, education, and faith will continue to inspire and guide us. She has left this world for her heavenly home, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved and served. Janis's life was a testament to the power of kindness, the strength of family bonds, and the enduring light of a soul dedicated to the service of others. She will be deeply missed and eternally remembered.
SERVING IN WORSHIP:
Pastor: Joe Baumgarten
Organist: Linda Gurney
Choir Director & Soloist: Paula Walker
Pianist: Neil Patton
