Janice Marilyn (Ward) Petty

A beautiful soul departed this earth on January 9, 2024.  Janice Marilyn (Ward) Petty, 86, was born on her aunt’s farm in Nappanee, Indiana, on November 5, 1937, to Paul and Mabel Ward.  Family who preceded her in passing include her parents and siblings Kenneth Ward and Karen Strang.   Surviving siblings are Roger Ward, Pam Fershin, Marsha Reed, and Jerry Ward.

On May 16, 1959, Jan married James Petty, who survives.  James was her loving husband for 64 years and, in her later years, her tireless caregiver.   Their union produced five children; Brenda Foster (Elmer), Brian, Becky Kent (Brian), Bev Roggeman (John), and Eric (Erin).  She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Jan attended Mishawaka High School.  In 1963, she became a licensed beautician, first taking clients at home prior to employment at the Beauteria Beauty Shop in South Bend.  She proudly pursued and obtained her G.E.D. in 1989.

Jan and James purchased Rossini Pizza in 1972, owning it for over 40 years.  All five children and some of the grandchildren worked at the business, learning the value of hard work while having some fun along the way.  Jan’s work ethic and business savvy helped the restaurant succeed.

Jan was a very creative and artistic woman.  She enjoyed all arts, showing a special talent for watercolors.  She also very much enjoyed working with flowers and plants.  In later years, she could be found sitting with James on the deck he built viewing nature and especially delighting in the birds at the feeder.

Jan most enjoyed spending time and laughing with her family.  She often stated, “My kids are the wonderful light of my life.”  The kids never doubted her.  She raised them with a gentle hand and was never critical.

Jan’s strength was a marvel to her family.  She could always find something positive during any difficult situation or health issue.  She was truly a very kind soul, who always thought of everyone else.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday, January 20, 2024, from 1-3 pm at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home, Mishawaka.  A funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 3 pm.  Cremains will be interred at a later date at Fairview Cemetery.