John "Jack" Jantzen

John “Jack” Louis Jantzen, age 88, passed away on February 12, 2026, at his farm in rural Darlington, Wisconsin. Born July 7, 1937, in Wisconsin, Jack was a lifelong resident of the Truman area and a steady presence in the countryside he loved.

He was the son of the late Clarence D. Jantzen and Ruby May (Nodolf) Jantzen. A 1955 graduate of Darlington High School, Jack devoted his life to farming. The land was not just his livelihood—it was his comfort, his routine, and his purpose. He was a man who preferred the quiet rhythm of chores at sunrise over the noise of town, and he found satisfaction in hard work done without recognition. Farming was the life he knew and loved, and he carried it out with quiet determination.

Jack was simple in his ways and content in his solitude. Though he kept mostly to himself, those who knew him understood the depth of his steady character. He possessed a natural stubborn streak, a quiet strength, and a soft spot for animals of every kind. His connection to the outdoors and to the creatures in his care reflected a gentle heart beneath his reserved nature.

He was a member of the Saddle Club of Darlington and Grace Lutheran Church, where he found comfort in faith and familiar faces. Jack never married, but he was a devoted brother and uncle who showed his love not through many words, but through presence, reliability, and quiet acts of kindness.

Jack is lovingly remembered by his sister, Judy (Harold) Elzen of Darlington; his nieces, Missy (Dave) Zasada and Shelly (Scott) McGowan; and his nephew, Matt (Jessica) Elzen, all of Darlington. He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant brother, Billy.

A visitation for family and friends will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Darlington Funeral Home. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date, with burial at Union Grove Cemetery in Darlington.