Janice Ziolkowski

Janice “Janie” D. Ziolkowski, 71, of Oconomowoc, passed away peacefully on Friday May 20th, 2016 surrounded by her family. Born in Milwaukee, WI on April 18th, 1945 Janie is the daughter of the late Charles F. Tyler and Dorothy Bernhagen. On April 27th 1963 Janie married Thomas Ziolkowski. As newlyweds they flew to Germany in May where they lived until October while Thomas continued to serve in the Army. In October 1963 they moved to Texas and lived there until April 1964 when Thomas was honorably discharged from the Army. They settled in South Milwaukee for many years, until they moved to Oconomowoc. Janie was passionate about horses and teaching children. She taught C.C.D at St. Jerome’s Church. Later in life she volunteered her time at Avalon Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Watertown, WI for many years. When they closed their doors Janie found LifeStridors Therapeutic Riding Program in Waukesha, WI. She earned the title “Horsewhisper”. The horses provided Janie gifts as equally as Janie provided them gifts. She simply had a way with them. Janie loved gardening, spending time up north, and simply being with her family. She greatly missed her beloved pets Lady and Miss Dakota T. Time spent with family was “never long enough. The time just goes by too quick”. Janie is survived by her husband Thomas, son and daughter – in- law Brian and Crystal (Martin) Ziolkowski, Oconomowoc; daughter and future son-in-law Symantha and Andy Massey, Green Bay; grandson Randy Ziolkowski and wife Brittney and great-granddaughter Phoenix Paul Ziolkowski, Oconomowoc; many cousins and their families. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude, appreciation, and respect to the staff and doctors of Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital and Waukesha Memorial Hospital for their kindness, support, and compassion. A special thank you to God’s angels on earth, Physicians Assistant Ann Thompson and ICU nurse Liz. Family and friends may call on Thursday June 2nd 2016 at Pakenkopf Funeral Home 1165 E. Summit Avenue Oconomowoc, WI from 5:00pm – 6:00pm. A prayer service will be at 6:00pm. A private burial will be held Friday June 3rd, 2016. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to LifeStiders Therapeutic Riding Program in Waukesha, WI or the Washington County Humane Society. Wife, mom, and friend, we love you and miss you. You are forever in our hearts. May you be at peace.