Janet Powell

Janet R. Powell (née Krenek), 85, of Plainfield, formerly of Brookfield, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on April 19th, 2026. Dear widow of Jerry I. Powell, loving mother to Candace (John) Jacques and Colette McCool (née Boivin). Cherished grandmother to Carly (Bryan) Leonard, John (Nia) McCool, Liam McCool, Sara Catlin, and Emily Catlin. Great grandmother of Aurie, August, and Andrew. Endeared by her former sons-in-law Patrick McCool and William Catlin. Dear sister to Patricia (Austin) Wilson, beloved aunt to Susan Wilson. Dearest companion to Don Upton.

Janet was born to the late Rudolph and Edith Krenek, began her childhood in Chicago and then the family settled in Brookfield when she was a young girl. She formed many lifelong friendships in the community and then married at age 19. Janet moved to Berwyn, and then the family settled in Downers Grove, where she was a stay-at-home mom for her two daughters until she followed her dream to become a Registered Nurse in the 70s. She excelled in her nursing career, working in a wide range of positions throughout the years. Her expertise in nursing earned her the nickname "Dr. Powell" because she was the family go-to person for all health-related issues. This was truly a gift she gave us all.

Janet later married Jerry Powell and when he retired, they moved to Florida. They enjoyed a slower-paced life, socializing with new friends, visiting with family and golfing. She continued to work part-time as a home health nurse until an accident left Jerry disabled. Janet then spent her retirement years caring for him until his passing. When Janet and Jerry moved back home to Illinois, she immersed herself in the joys of simple family life as a grandmother. She relished her love of music, singing, traveling, her cockatiel birds, staying fit and playing bridge. Later, she and Don spent their summers at his lake house in Michigan, the month of February in milder climates, countless hours playing cards and valuing each other's company.

Janet will be remembered for her blunt honesty, great sense of humor, being a true-blue friend and steadfast protector of family. She will hold a special place in the hearts of all whose lives she touched with her loving presence.

There will be a service is at 10:30 am St Johns Lutheran 2650 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL, 60435

Burial will be at 12:30 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL 60421

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options, Schiller Park, IL 60176