Janis Leann Larson was born March 7, 1935, in Madison, SD, the only child of John and Leona (Olson) Larson. Her family later moved to Dell Rapids, where Janis attended school and graduated from Dell Rapids High School.

Around that time, she met Gene Haagenson at Cootie Days in Dell Rapids. After graduation, Janis pursued an interest in nursing and attended South Dakota State University. The two dated for a year and married soon after. They just celebrated 71 years of marriage on the day of her passing.

Janis and Gene were true companions and partners, raising their family in rural Baltic operating their dairy farm. Janis desired a big family, and she was happiest with all of them gathered around to enjoy a meal. She was known for her great cooking, warm hospitality, and quick wit.

She was an engaged spectator at all the children’s and grandchildren’s activities. Her kids would joke that due to her feisty cheering, they (and the entire crowd) could always tell that Janis was in attendance.

Janis enjoyed gardening and loved to read in her spare time. She was a fantastic seamstress.

Throughout their life together, Janis and Gene enjoyed quite a bit of travel to most of the nation’s popular tourist cities, her favorites being San Fransisco and New Orleans, and anywhere visiting family.

Not only was Janis was an active member the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, she was a dedicated member of West Nidaros Lutheran Church, participating in WELCA (Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and quilting, Bible study, and book club. She also taught Sunday school and helped with planning for the church’s new Family Life Center.

Janis passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Grateful for having shared her life is her husband of 71 years, Gene; children David (Mary) Haagenson of Baltic and their children Marie (Josh), Haley (Thomas), and Amy; Mark Haagenson of Baltic and his children, Rachel (Kevin) and David; Lynne Haagenson of Baltic; Kathy Haagenson of Tucson, AZ; Jeff Haagenson of Baltic and his children Kayla and Alex; Susan (Don) Wynne of Montvale, NJ and their children Garrett and Natalie; and Paul Haagenson of Baltic.Great-grandchildren include Emma, Bodie, and Eloise; and Declan and Avery.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Dells Nursing & Rehab Center and the staff at Avera McKennan Hospital for their kindness, patience, and compassion shown throughout Janis’ care. Visitation will be Sunday, August 23 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Funeral will be Monday, August 24 at 11:00 am with luncheon immediately following. Both events are hosted at the West Nidaros Lutheran Church in rural Crooks.

A private burial will take place at Pioneer Cemetery in rural Baltic.

The family requests memorial donations in Janis’ name to go to Pioneer Cemetery.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.