Janice “Jan” Louise Anderson Hershberger was a caring mother, wife, sister, and friend. Known for being kind, loving, caring, and humorous, she passed away at the age of 74 on September 2,2024 after a brief illness. She was born to Ray and LuEtta Anderson on June 5, 1950, in Loup City, Nebraska.  After graduating from Kearney High School, Jan pursued a career as a first responder.  She taught paramedic and EMT certification classes for Southeast Community College for several years.  After 30 years of service, she retired from the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.  In recognition of her outstanding service, Jan received multiple awards throughout her career including the Nebraska Emergency Medical Technician Association Instructor of the Year and Nebraska Peace Officer of the Year. 

She was an active member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, serving as one of the organists for the church until her health made it too difficult to play. Jan started the One Book One Classroom program at St Andrew’s school.  Each year she would spend a day at the school donating a special book for each classroom to read.  The students were then given the book for their very own.

Jan was a supportive, caring person who believed, modeled, and taught others that it costs nothing to be generous in spirit. She and her husband Larry were married for 54 years. They raised two children, Michelle of Kansas City and Michael (deceased). Jan was a devoted, committed, and involved mother who believed in family first and in extending a hand to the next generation to make their path a little smoother. Not only did she love visiting Michelle and Mike in Kansas City but also the adventurous road trips with Michelle.

One of Jan’s most commendable accomplishments was becoming an accomplished pianist. She taught piano lessons to more than 50 students.  She was also known as a skilled seamstress sewing beautiful quilts for her family and friends.  Jan was an avid reader, and bridge player. It was no secret, her greatest passion was cheering for the Nebraska Husker Volleyball team.  The family learned not to call during a match.

Jan will be remembered as a wonderful mother who was always there when her family needed her the most, offering support, wisdom, and love. A friend to many, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength. Jan is preceded in death by her son and parents.  She is survived by her husband Larry, daughter Michelle (Mike Stevenson), sister, Jeannie Stade (Curt), Geri Anderson, Jolene Near (William), sister-in-law Charlotte Nedrow and nine nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 2024 at the St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska with Father Tom McGuire officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, September 6, 2024 at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. at the church.

Memorials may go to the family’s choice.

Inurnment will be in the St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery at a later date.

Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.