Janet Ann (Marks) Kratz

Janet Ann (Marks) Kratz was born on September 6, 1955 in St. Charles, Missouri to Benjamin and Beulah Mae (Fancher) Marks. She went to Bayless Senior High and furthered her education, obtaining her bachelor’s degree at Drury University. Janet continued to further her professional career at the University of Missouri-Columbia and acquired her master's degree in Special Education. Janet had a lifelong passion for helping others, her kindness and compassion were limitless. In her early working years, she was employed with the Department of Conservation. She started her teaching career at Oak Hill R-1 as a kindergarten teacher, eventually moving on to teach special education. Janet went on to teach special education at Salem R-80 Middle School for ten years. She was an amazing teacher who made learning enjoyable. Janet loved her job and truly cared about helping her students succeed. She offered a safe space for students and her door was always open. Janet was willing to help every child possible, even if you weren't in her class. Janet loved to read and could often be found with a good book in her hands. In her spare time, she liked gardening and growing flowers. Janet had talented hands and enjoyed the folk art of tole painting on wooden objects. She cherished her family and treasured time spent with them, especially her grandchildren. Janet was a member of the Salem Fraternal Order of Eagles. Janet departed this life on September 27, 2021 in Salem, Missouri at the age of sixty-six years. She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her loving children: Shawn Airis and wife Sirrena of Gloucester, VA, and Kimberly Wilhelm and husband Kenneth of Stockdale, TX; one sister: Pauline Marks and husband Mike Molnar of St. Louis, MO; four grandchildren: Trinity Airis, Lily Warnement, Wesley Wilhelm, and Megan Wilhelm; and many dear friends. Preceding her in death, parents: Benjamin and Beulah Marks. Janet will be remembered for her contagious laugh and fun personality. Her sweet memory will live on in the hearts and lives she touched along the way. Janet was special to many and she will be forever missed. Celebration of Life for Janet Ann (Marks) Kratz was held Friday, October 1, 2021 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Janet Ann (Marks) Kratz

September 6, 1955 - September 27, 2021