Theresa Lokken Janes

Theresa Lokken Janes, 90, of Fort Atkinson, WI passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Theresa was born on October 13th, 1935, to Otto and Hedwig Yaeggi, as the youngest of twelve children. As a child raised on the farm and surrounded by a large family, Theresa learned early on the value of hard work and the joy of being around others. She carried with her a special fondness for everyday pleasures, good company, and only the best kinds of trouble that come with growing up in small-town, rural Wisconsin. Theresa’s Catholic school education and upbringing instilled in her resilience, compassion, and an enduring love for family and friends that she carried with her throughout her life.

Theresa’s vivacious spirit, deep faith, and gift for connecting with others were at the heart of who she was. As a lifelong resident of Fort Atkinson, Theresa loved the place she called home and treasured the many friendships she built over the years. As a devoted follower of Christ, she never missed a Sunday Mass. Faith was a steady presence in her life, as were the things she enjoyed most – like singing along to the guitar, floating down the Rock River on the pontoon, and being near the water whenever she could.

Theresa was known for her outgoing nature, boundless energy, and genuine love of being with others. Whether she was golfing well into her 80s, bowling with friends, dealing the next round of cards, or heading out shopping, she was always on the move. Theresa enjoyed sharing a happy hour cocktail with friends, gathering with family during the holidays, and, whenever the opportunity arose, taking a good trip to the casino – where luck always seemed to be on her side.

Theresa embraced life fully, finding joy in new adventures, meaningful connections, and time spent with those she loved. To experience her hospitality, sense of humor, generosity, and unmistakable spunk was a privilege to all who met her. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her enthusiasm for life, her devotion to family and friends, and the countless memories she created with those fortunate enough to know and love her.

Theresa is survived by her children, Julie Forrest, Lisa (Mike) Pandow, and Erik (Gina) Lokken; her nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many other loving family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney Lokken; husband, Robert ‘Buzz’ Janes; her parents; and siblings.

Theresa’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to Lou Stark Schwemmer and the nearby family members who visited often, for their love, support, and care. Special thanks also to the compassionate staff and caregivers at Reena Senior Living - Memory Care and Rainbow Hospice, whose kindness and dedication brought comfort and dignity in her final days. She was also blessed by the love and friendship of her sister-in-law, Joann Yaeggi.

Though she will be deeply missed, Theresa’s family finds comfort in knowing that her strong faith has carried her home, and that the laughter, love, and memories she shared will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Friday, June 12th at 1:00 PM, with a visitation beginning at 11:30 AM, and a burial to follow the service.

Dunlap Memorial Home in Fort Atkinson is assisting the family.

www.DunlapMemorialHome.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.