Janet Christine Elsbury

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 30, 1929, to Emmanuel and Dagmar Larson, Janet grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and purpose. She graduated from Hirsch High School in 1947 and earned a diploma from DePaul University’s secretarial department in 1950.

Janet married Edvard Anderson on February 23, 1952, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and friendships in Waukegan, Illinois. They reared two children, Jeffrey and Carol. After Ed’s passing in 1972, Janet remained a devoted mother while working for the Waukegan Public Schools and in the legislative office of State Senator Morris and State Representative Matijevich. When Senator Morris became mayor, Janet proudly served as his trusted executive secretary.

A gifted pianist and lifelong music lover, Janet sang with the Lake County Swedish Glee Club and shared her talents with the congregation at Trinity United Lutheran Church. There, she taught Vacation Bible School, accompanied the children’s choir, and served in leadership roles in the Women of the ELCA.

In 1982, Janet married Robert James Elsbury and together they shared more than four decades of love and companionship. She and Jim enjoyed traveling and found great joy in the company of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. However, a good game of pinochle was a close second!

Janet will be remembered for her sparkling blue eyes, her warm and welcoming smile, and her love of music, dancing, and laughter. She brought joy, kindness, and grace to everyone she met.

She is lovingly survived by her children Jeffrey (Nadine), Carol, Tim (Darlene), Tom (Deb), and Michelle (Frank); eight grandchildren—Eric, Steve (Danielle), Brian, John (Sumira), Danielle (Austin), Trevor (Lisa), Greg, and Rachel; and six great -grandchildren--Maya, Lucia, Haleigh, Sophia, Ronan, and Cameron.

Her smile, her laughter, and her love are blessings we will carry forever.

Service Saturday, June 21. Visitation from 10-11 a.m. at Trinity United Lutheran Church (658 Grand Ave. Waukegan) immediately followed by the funeral service. Procession to North shore Garden of Memories in North Chicago, final words at cemetery, luncheon at 1:00 p.m., Destino Ristorante (5101 Washington St. Ste. 34, Gurnee, IL).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Trinity United Lutheran Church, 658 Grand Ave., Waukegan, IL 60085COOL Food Pantry https://coolministries.org 800 W. Glen Flora Ave, Waukegan, IL 60085.