Janice Pirkel

Janice B. Pirkel, 82 of Watertown, passed away on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Bedrock Health Care Center of Watertown.

Jan was born November 13, 1940, in Brookfield WI, the daughter of Henry and Laurina (Mueller) Zillmer. She grew up on a farm and with no brothers in her family learned to work hard. Jan later graduated from Watertown High School, and enjoyed bowling and darts in her earlier years. She worked a variety of jobs, waitressing while raising her children and went on to own a tavern for 5 years. Jan finished her career in home health, something near to her heart since she was the primary caretaker for her own parents in their later years. Crafting was her favorite activity, especially using artificial flowers to make wreaths, centerpieces, and other display items. Jan also liked to play cards, and do scratch off tickets. She was the former “Gaming Commissioner of Grellton”. Above all else, Jan loved her family and enjoyed helping others. She will be missed by those she leaves behind.

Jan is survived by her children Deborah (Steve Harrass) Detert, Mark (Jenifer) Pirkel, Edward (Rhonda Borchardt) Pirkel, Paul (Dawn) Pirkel, grandchildren Craig, Tiarra, Gabriella, Stephanie, Kyle, Sammi Jo, Sara, Jay, Amber, Vince, Kodi, and Kortnie. 17 great-grandchildren, sister Alice Meschke, and former husband Richard Pirkel. She is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Gladys (Donald) Schroeder, and brothers-in-law Robert Meschke and Gary Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Rainbow Hospice Care in Jan's name would be appreciated by the family.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Glenview Memorial Gardens Chapel with Rev. Nick Slater presiding. Following the service, a friends and family gathering will be held at Linda's Lookout in Grellton.