Janet Petsch Gartner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Janet Petsch Gartner on Dec. 21, 2022.

Janet was born on Jan. 21, 1945, in Riverton, Wyoming, to parents James “Jim” and Reita Petsch. She was joined by sisters Lois (1947) and Jeannie (1957), completing the family. Janet spoke fondly of her childhood years and the times spent with her parents, sisters, Granny Mabe and Granny Petsch. She shared stories that involved her cousin, Jackie Petsch, and she loved riding her horse, Spot. Janet, Lois and Jeannie shared a special sister bond throughout her life that resulted in countless stories and laughs.

After graduating from Riverton High School in 1963, she lived in Riverton, Denver, eventually moving to Billings around 1978. She worked at the Northern Rockies Cancer Center for over 20 years.

Janet married George Gartner on Aug. 14, 1966. To this union, their children Jim, Jason and Jennifer were born. Janet loved her kids fiercely and was their biggest supporter in all activities, including school/sporting/roller skating events. Her support continued on well into her kids’ adult lives in both personal and professional endeavors. She was so proud of her kids and their accomplishments and expressed this often. She was a great listener and offered sound advice whenever asked. Janet and George’s home was the “hangout spot,” where we enjoyed many family dinners, pool parties, craft gatherings, holiday celebrations and various other events for many years.

Becoming a grandmother was Janet’s all time favorite role in life. She created a unique, special relationship with each grandchild and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them, whether it was babysitting, sleepovers, mini photo sessions, birthday parties and attending their various activities, just to name a few. When we planned any get-together, her response to the invitation was always “I wouldn’t miss it for the world!” She always showed up to the event with a camera … many of our favorite photos were captured by Janet.

Janet loved doing crafts, playing Canasta, taking trips to Deadwood, shopping with Lois and ANY activity, big or small, where she could spend time with her family. Family was her everything! She was kind, funny, razor sharp, confident, witty, independent, classy and absolutely beautiful! Her smile and laugh lit up our world. She loved all animals, especially her kitties. She earned many nicknames over the years and we will forever remember her as Mom, Nanny, BFF, Nanners, Sistey #1 and Jan Babe.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by George Gartner; her sons, Jim (Jeanette “JJ”), Jason (Beth), and daughter Jennifer Schaaf (Jason Monroe); grandchildren Zachery Gartner, Jessica (Alex) Strand, Jared Schaaf, Jace Schaaf, Justin Gartner and Grace Gartner; sisters Lois (John) Divelbiss and Jeannie (Jim) Cox; several nieces and nephews, including special niece/nephew Reita Reiter and John Divelbiss.

The loss of Janet leaves a huge void in our hearts and one that will never be replaced. We will forever cherish our memories of her.

A private family service will be planned for later this spring.