Janice Marie Ziegler

Janice Marie Ziegler, 81, of Laurie, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026 in Olathe, KS.

Born on March 7, 1945, in Hermann, Missouri, Janice was the beloved daughter of Clarence C. Heberle and Marie (Meyer) Heberle. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Donald D. Ziegler, on May 23, 1964, at St. Joseph's Church in Rhineland, Missouri. Together they shared 62 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, family traditions, and cherished memories.

Janice dedicated her professional career to the medical field, where she worked in administrative roles and built lasting relationships through her kindness, organization, and commitment to helping others.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Donald D. Ziegler; her son, Brian S. Ziegler of Bates City, Missouri; her daughter, Janeen D. Sauer and husband Troy of Olathe, Kansas; her beloved twin granddaughters, Haley M. Sauer and Megan M. Sauer; her cherished niece, Kimberly A. Shopper; great-nephews Jared Shopper and Cody Shopper (Mary Daniel); nephews Jason Ziegler and Stephen Ziegler; niece Janna Ziegler; and cousins Jeanie Fredrick and Gloria Robinson.

Above all else, Janice treasured her family. Her greatest joy was spending time with her twin granddaughters, Haley M. Sauer and Megan M. Sauer. She loved supporting her family in their many passions, whether attending Haley and Megan's equestrian competitions, cheering on Brian at mud runs and dirt track races, or lovingly reminding him to be careful on his motorcycle rides. These moments brought her immense happiness and reflected the deep love and pride she held for her family. Her unwavering devotion, encouragement, and presence enriched their lives and left a legacy of love that will endure for generations.

Janice embraced life with enthusiasm and appreciation for both its simple pleasures and special moments. She was an avid reader and an accomplished gardener who took great pride in her yard and was honored with the Lake Bloomers Gardening Award. She loved spending time boating on the lake, watching horse racing, cheering for her favorite football team, The Chiefs, and enjoying a morning cup of coffee in her sunroom. Family and friends looked forward to her homemade sugar cookies, cheesecake, and pie dough roll-ups, which became beloved family traditions and were always made with love. Janice had a special talent for decorating beautiful tablescapes and creating memorable holiday displays, earning her the affectionate nickname "Martha" among family and friends, while her sister Judith was lovingly known as "Betty" for her exceptional cooking. To her cousins, she was always known simply and lovingly as "Necie," a nickname that reflected the warmth and familiarity she shared with those closest to her.

Janice's final days were spent surrounded by the love of her devoted husband, son, niece, daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughters, and her dear friends Lisa Raybourn, Stanley and Corliss Smith reflecting the deep friend and family bonds that defined her life. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Though she will be greatly missed, the love she shared, the traditions she created, and the memories she leaves behind will continue to bring comfort and joy to all who knew and loved her.