Janet Harker

Janet M. Harker, age 87, of Shullsburg, WI, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Dominic Villa in Hazel Green, surrounded by the love and presence of her family.

Born on September 20, 1937, to Joseph and Cecelia Schwartz, Janet grew up in Shullsburg and graduated from Shullsburg High School in 1956. Not long after, she married the love of her life, Richard Harker. Together they built a beautiful life and legacy, farming side-by-side for over 35 years in the Darlington and Shullsburg area.

After moving into town, Janet brought her hard-working spirit and warm heart to the Shullsburg Schools, where she worked as a cook and later as a janitor. She proudly held the title of “Miner Maid”—a role she cherished deeply. The students adored her, and the feeling was mutual. Whether she was being honored during Parents Night with flowers and autographed sports balls or cheering in the stands at games, Janet was a constant and beloved presence in the lives of many young people.

Janet had a deep appreciation for the past, which showed in her love for collecting dolls, doing puzzles and antiques. Her flower gardens, especially her chick and hens planters, were a source of pride and joy. But above all else, Janet’s heart belonged to her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Grandma J,” were the light of her life. She showered them with hugs, laughter, cookies, and her famous monkey bread—treasures of the heart they will carry forever.

She is survived by her daughters: Rose Doyle and Susan (Dan) Morrissey of Shullsburg, Mary (Gary) Horras of Waunakee, and Bernadine (Mark) Salathe of Darlington; her daughter-in-law, Pam Harker of Shullsburg; and her son-in-law, David Ingram of Rock City, IL. Janet’s legacy continues through her 17 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her endless joy. She also leaves behind her siblings: sisters Mary Ellen Magee and Helene Lee of Shullsburg, Linda Foht of Platteville, and Mavis Hull of Mineral Point; brothers Joe (Carmen) Schwartz of Belvidere, IL, Michael, Bernard, and Gary (Theresa) Schwartz, all of Shullsburg; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Janet is now reunited in peace with her parents, husband Richard; her sons John and Allen Harker; her daughter Loretta Ingram; her nephew Lucas Lee, great grandchild: Jacob Harker, and father and mother-in-law: Ray and Elva Harker.

A longtime member of Centenary United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women’s Group, Janet lived a life grounded in faith, kindness, and service. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her gentle heart, sharp wit, and unwavering love for those around her.

Janet was the heart of her family—the quiet strength, the warm embrace, the keeper of memories. Her spirit lives on in every flower blooming in her garden, in every batch of cookies lovingly made, and in the laughter of the generations she leaves behind.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church (226 W. Church St, Shullsburg) with Rev. Jorge Ochoa officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Shullsburg. A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Centenary United Methodist Church and on Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services at the church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Shullsburg is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Janet's name.