Jan Ellen Busche

A scholar from the beginning, Jan graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Illinois, establishing a standard of academic excellence and mental discipline that defined her entire life. She did not merely read books; she mastered them. This deep-seated respect for the written word led to her decades of service—both professional and voluntary—at the libraries of ICC, Morton, and Groveland. She cherished time spent with friends in book clubs, HCE, and OLLI.

Her intellectual life was deeply rooted in her heritage. As a devoted member of Congregation Anshai Emeth, she approached her faith with the same analytical depth she brought to her studies. She found purpose in the complexity of Jewish text and tradition, valuing the synagogue as a place of historical continuity and rigorous thought.

Jan challenged those in her orbit to think more deeply, read more widely, and live with intellectual integrity. She is survived by her devoted husband, James; her daughters, Sara and Elizabeth; her son, Matthew; and siblings, Laurie Feest, Gail (Lanre) Egbeyemi, Robert (Julie) Grazian, John (Cynthia) Grazian, Rachel (Bill) Ross, Lawrence Grazian, and Victor Grazian. Her legacy lives on in the high standards of curiosity and character she instilled in her family.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Springdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital. To leave condolences, please visit www.davison-fulton.com