Janie I. MERRINS

Janie was born Janie Irene Vogler on June 22, 1948 to Eugene and Irene (nee Schneider) Vogler in St. Charles, MO. Janie was blessed to be born into a large and loving family as the second oldest child. Her family meant the world to her and remained a constant source of support and love throughout her life. She is survived by all seven siblings (and their spouses): Charlotte Pettig, Larry Vogler (Danny Purcell), Diana Vogler, Roger Vogler (Pamela House Vogler), Vera Vogler (Jennifer Smith), Donald Vogler and Catherine Vogler. She is preceded in death by both parents. Janie had three children: Dawn Wyman (nee Merrins), Michael Merrins and Eve Merrins. Janie was a wonderful mother and she devoted her life to her children. She is survived by Dawn, Michael and his wife Angela. She is preceded in death by Eve. One of Janie’s greatest wishes in life was to be reunited with Eve and she looked forward to meeting her in heaven. Janie was also blessed with several grandchildren: Cassandra Wyman, Braden Wyman, Jacob Wyman, Noah Wyman, Danielle Ebli, Kira Ebli and Kayley Wellnitz. Finally, Janie gave thanks for being able to meet her first great grandchild, Lucas Wrozier, before passing. Janie was guided to a life of service and became a nurse early on. She dedicated her life to healing and helping others. She spent the majority of her career at St. Joseph’s Health Center in St. Charles and was known for her compassion, integrity and ability to lead. She was respected and loved by many peers and she retired from the Health Center knowing she had touched many lives and truly made a difference. Janie remained an avid learner throughout her life. She was continually pursuing new interests and she threw herself into each new interest with passion and excitement. In her later years those interests revolved around woodwork (she could often be found tinkering in her workshop covered in sawdust) and piecing together the family tree which started as a high school project that never ended. She took many trips, traipsing through libraries and cemeteries checking names and dates and she was proud of the work she accomplished on behalf of her family. She was also a self-avowed tomboy and was happiest being outdoors, where she loved to camp, fish and raise horses which she did for many years. Janie was a nurturer throughout her life. She was happiest when helping others. She had a wonderful sense of humor and remained strong and independent no matter what life handed her. She spent the last years of her life battling lung cancer and she fought the battle with grace and dignity. She was supported by an army of people who loved her and she gave up the battle with loved ones at her side. Her passing will leave her deeply mourned and missed by many but there is no doubt she’s reunited with those who made the journey before her and she’s celebrating with them on the other side.

Janie I. MERRINS

June 22, 1948 - May 26, 2015