Janice M. Straeter

Janice M. Straeter, 74, of Highland, IL, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at home, surrounded by family.

She was born on June 22, 1951, in Breese, IL, to Edmund and Dolores (nee Beckmann) Wellen. On May 7, 1971, she married Virgil Straeter in Aviston, IL.

Janice graduated from Mater Dei High School in 1969, then got her certificate from Sanford Business College. She worked in the Federal Building in St. Louis until the fall of 1973. She then worked for Virgil’s business in administration and as a cashier for the auction business. Janice was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Highland and followed her faith meticulously, praying the rosary often. She enjoyed cooking and baking, being known for her cherry pie, cream puffs, and helping her late mother, Delores, make strawberry jelly. A sweet, loving, family oriented woman, Janice will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edmund and Dolores Wellen; brothers-in-law, Jim Straeter, Joseph Urzi, and Frank Straeter; and nephew, Michael Wellen.

Janice is survived by her husband of almost 55 years, Virgil Straeter; children, Renee Marie (Mark) Steinmann and Eli Virgil (Janell) Straeter; grandchildren, Michaela Steinmann, Jacob Steinmann, and Rhett Straeter; brother, Jim (Diane) Wellen; brothers and sisters-in-law, Margaret (Mike) Detmer, Eileen (Gary) Kerr, Melinda Straeter, Diane Urzi, Vicki Glauber, and Loreine (Ross) Campbell; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Paul Catholic School or HIS Kids, Inc.

Memorial Visitation: Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 8:30 to 10:15 am, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland, IL

Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 10:30 am, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland, IL

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL