Janet Kuhlman

Janet Ruth Kuhlman, 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 28, 2022. She was born on June 28, 1938, in Watertown, Wis., to Merlin Edward Kuhlman and Marion Marie Broeske. She grew up in Madison and had fond memories of a simpler time spending time with family and friends, riding her bike, playing games and cooking with her mother. She graduated from East High School in 1956. In 1957, she was the first young lady from the Chicago recruiting district to be accepted in a special company of the U.S. Navy known as WAVES. She served in the Navy from 1957-1961 and was able to experience different parts of the country and learn new skills. She returned to Madison after serving in the Navy and began working at Wisconsin Bell. She would go on to work at Wisconsin Bell, later known as Ameritech and lastly SBC for 36 years and was able to retire before turning 60.

Jan joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in 1970 and was a proud member of the church, serving in many different capacities throughout her life. She had a strong faith and a willingness to serve those she loved. Jan had a love of sports, cooking, baking, crafts, cleaning, playing games and most importantly spending time with her family. She was so devoted to those that she loved. Although she did not have any of her own children, she helped her sister raise her four daughters, two great-nephews and a great-niece. She was truly a second mother and sacrificed so much in an effort to give her “surrogate” children the best life possible. Her willingness to help out her family and do the right thing will be rememberaed most by her loved ones. She was a rare find who unselfishly gave so much to her family. She was quiet but had a great sense of humor and loved playing cards, specifically Euchre, with her family.   

Jan was preceded in death by her loving parents, Merlin Edward Kuhlman and Marion Marie Broeske; her nephew, Brad Knapp; and many relatives that she had fond memories of. She is survived by her sister (BFF, partner in crime, ride or die), Judi Searle of Sun Prairie; her surrogate children, Tonya (John) Pogodzinski, Aliesha (Dale) Rauls, Marissa (Jim) Mayfield, Celestia (Josue Guadalupe) Knapp, Dustin (Krista) Searle, Dylan (Katherine) Searle, Brea (Austin Lehman) Fortney; and her great-nieces and nephews, Charlie, Coby, Cullen, Ceegan, Cristian, Grant, Kilee, Hailee, Sofia, Harper, Hewitt, Hadley, Maya and Willa.

At Jan’s request, there will be no funeral services at this time. Her family will honor her memory privately at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420