Emma L. Jansen

Emma L. Jansen, 51, of Highland, IL, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at HSHS St. Joseph Hospital in Highland, IL.

She was born on August 3, 1975, to Leon “Leo” Zobrist and Darryll Fertch.

In life's coloring book, some stay inside the lines and some stray outside the lines, but not Emma. Emma scribbled, in the bright and unique array of colors that made up her personality. She had her own unforgettable way of making people laugh. Her loud, contagious laughter could fill a room, and those who loved her could recognize it anywhere. Emma never knew a stranger and made a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Although a car accident created difficult barriers in her life, and over time led to physical disability, she always persevered through each challenge she faced. Emma's number one priority was her family. She took more pride in the love she gave to her family than anything else in life. She always did what she could, even in times of hardship, and she made everybody feel rich in the love and laughter she gave.

Emma would work odd jobs just to make ends meet, regardless of the obstacles she faced. For a time, she was a bus monitor at First Student in Highland where she ensured safe and smooth travels to school for dozens of children. But Emma's favorite job was being a mother and grandmother to 4 children and 6 grandchildren, whom she spoiled with endless love. She extended this love to anyone in need of a helping hand and has touched countless lives. Emma had an immense heart of pure gold and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her father, Leon “Leo” Zobrist; brothers, Darren Henke and Leonard Zobrist; paternal grandparents, August and Emma (nee Hug) Zobrist; and maternal grandparents, Darrell and Francis (nee Dwyer) Fertch.

Emma is survived by her mother, Darryll (nee Fertch) Wiegand; children, Christopher (Mercedes) Clark, Sarah (fiancé, Kevin Grayling) Clark, Derek Jansen, and Lucas Weder; grandchildren, Eli, Jace, Kade, Logan, Luka, and Cole; siblings, Jean (nee Zobrist) Rinderer, Jeanne (Stephen) (nee Henke) Meunier, Daniel (Danielle) Henke, Dwayne (Jennifer) Wiegand, Deanne (nee Zobrist) Kimme, and Denise (Larry) (nee Zobrist) Miener; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately at a later date.

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL