Janet Lynn (Smith) Hilgenfeld

Janet Lynn (Smith) Hilgenfeld was born on September 10, 1955, to Allan Dale and Jo Anne (Livingston) Smith in Wichita, Kansas. She peacefully joined her Heavenly Father on January 19, 2021.
Janet married the love of her life, Jim Hilgenfeld, on August 11, 1979 in Wichita. She graduated from Southeast High School in 1973 and then attended Wichita State University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts & Education in 1977 and Master of Education in 1983. As an elementary education teacher, Janet was deeply devoted to her children. She was an engaged member of Delta Gamma sorority during her collegiate years and continued to serve the organization as an alumna advisor.
Janet is survived by her husband, Jim Hilgenfeld of Wichita; daughter, Kelli Hilgenfeld of Oklahoma City, OK; sister, Julie Pastuer and husband David of Colorado Springs, CO; and mother-in-law, Vivian Hilgenfeld of Norman, OK, as well as many other family and friends.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents and father-in-law, Gene Hilgenfeld.
An adoring and loving wife, mother and sister, Janet was a courageous woman who defied all odds. Through her we have learned the values of resilience and perseverance.
Janet’s family is deeply appreciative of the wonderful care, kindness and love shown by her nurses, led by Barbara Jordan, over the past 36 years.
A family graveside service will be held at I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Norman, OK on February 5, 2021. The family will also hold a celebration of Janet’s life in Wichita in the upcoming months. Updates on her celebration will announced via www.tribute.care. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in her name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.