Janyce Rae Vatne

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janyce Rae Vatne (Graham) on March 30, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. Born on November 19, 1937, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Jan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

Jan shared 65 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Douglas Allan Vatne, whom she married on June 21, 1958. She is survived by Doug; their children, Dean (Leslie) Vatne, Jeanine (Scott) Haws, and Jennifer (Steve) Charbonnet; her sister, Jacquelyn Graham, and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Graham.

Jan worked as an executive secretary for Teamster Union Local 792 until her retirement in 1988. She later worked as a sales assistant at Dayton’s and Macy's. A member of Nativity Lutheran Church and active member at the YMCA in Coon Rapids, Jan built many lasting friendships. Jan was also a regular donor to the Memorial Blood Bank.

Jan loved to travel, particularly to Hawaii and took cruises with Doug to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Panama. She also enjoyed visiting casinos, locally and to Laughlin, Nevada. An avid reader of historical fiction and crime-thriller mysteries, Jan shared her love of books with family and friends.

Jan will be remembered for her selflessness, optimism, and infectious smile. Even during her illness, she always put others first. Her legacy of kindness will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Nativity Lutheran Church in St. Anthony with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will ne held at Sunset Cemetery, Minneapolis at 1:45 pm. In lieu of flowers or a memorial, Jan would wish all to practice acts of kindness in her memory.