Janis Simons

Janis Mae Simons (Brokke), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 7th, 2025 in Moose Lake, MN, at the young age of 73, after a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on November 17th, 1951, in Minneapolis, MN, Jan grew up with a kind heart, a fierce spirit, and a playful sense of humor that brought laughter to those who knew her. She was both a modest and joyful person whose quiet faith and genuine warmth touched everyone who crossed her path.

Her strong sense of justice and deep love for the Lord guided her throughout her life. Jan found peace and strength in her relationship with Jesus Christ, and as her faith grew stronger later in life, it was evident in the way she loved others with patience, kindness, and grace.

Jan was a woman of creativity and talent. She enjoyed reading, writing poetry (one of which was published), crocheting, and making handmade cards that often carried her love and encouragement to others. She found beauty in simple things and shared it generously.

Jan cherished her family deeply, loved spending time surrounded by those she held dear, and enjoyed reminiscing about the great times she had with her cousins throughout various stages of her life. Her laughter, stern guidance, and unwavering faith will be remembered always.

Janis is survived by her husband, David Simons; children Justin (Gina) Countryman and Anne (Jamie) Francis; step-children Valerie Olson and Julia Leung; grandchildren Rachel, Arihanna, Matthew, MaKayla (Josh), Amber (Zach), Emily (Shane), Jaden, and Kayla; great-grandchildren Jennifer, Braylee, Vivienne, Karsyn, Steven, Violet, Hank, Winter Rose and Enix; sister-in-law Sue Thompson; nieces and nephews Kevin, Katie, Erik, and Melissa, and many other loved ones. Jan is preceded in death by her parents Leonard & Golda Brokke, her brother Roger Brokke, and her first husband David Countryman.

A celebration of Janis’ life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 13th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (101 Buffalo Hills Lane, Brainerd, MN 56401), with visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Burial will be held at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls at 1:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to gather and honor her life, sharing stories and memories that reflect her love and faith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/annefrancis, in honor of Janis Mae Simons and her strength throughout her journey with the disease. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Though she is no longer with us in body, Janis’ light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her. Her faith, creativity, and strong spirit will be cherished forever.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.