David Janke

David Janke

May 28, 1933 - March 29, 2023

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Obituary

David Janke, 89, died peacefully on March 29, 2023 at SMP Health- Ava Maria in Jamestown, ND, under the care of JRMC Hospice.

David Janke was born on May 28, 1933 on the family farm south of Gackle, ND to Christina and Gottfried Janke.  He married LaVerne Bier on October 17, 1953 at the First Congregational Church in Gackle.  Together they had three children, Sandra, Deborah, and Randolph.  They farmed 7 miles south of Gackle for 10 years before moving the family to Jamestown.  There he worked for Schubert’s as a Glazer (glass-cutter).  During that time he also volunteered with the Jamestown Fire Department for roughly 20 years.  After that he opened Janke’s Lock & Key and was a well-known locksmith for many businesses locally for more than 20 years until he retired.  His wife, LaVerne, passed in 1998.  He later married Linda Rehn in Jamestown.

David was a very social person and loved nothing more than to sit and have coffee and visit with his friends.  Over the years he frequented the Pantry Cafe, White Drug Cafe, and later on at Perkins.  He was a lifetime member of the First Congregational Church in Jamestown and was a very active member often singing in the choir.  He was also a member of the German Heritage Society.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Rehn Janke of St. Michaels, MN, his children, Sandra (Gilbert) Sodawasser of Courtenay,  Deborah Wenzel of Jamestown, and Randolph (Judy) Janke of Farmington, MN., his grandchildren, David (Lisa Schulz) Wenzel of Bismarck, Holly (Derrick) Owens of Bismarck, Stacy (Leon) Darby of Jamestown, Jessica Sodawasser Ryan of Longview, TX, Kris (Alexandra) Janke, and Nick (Vanessa) Janke both of Farmington, MN, and 10 great grandchildren with one on the way.

Services will be held at a later date pending snow cover.  Arrangements are being handled at Haut Funeral Home in Jamestown.

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RK
Roger & Gloria Kautzman
Other •
Many years ago, as a waitress at White Drug, I recall David and a co-worker coming in, requesting "chocolate cokes." No problem for me, until I was observed doing so, by my boss. I had to discontinue their request. Lol May past memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
AE
Ardina and Elmo
Other •
Wishing you peace and comfort as you mourn for David. Cherish the memories. We think of the trip to the Black Hills and the many Perkin's breakfasts among other precious memories. May he now rest in peace.
RB
Rayette K Brown
Other •
I had the pleasure to visit and do David's hair at Edgewood. I will miss his smiling face whenever I'd go over to MC Hugs and God's blessing to the family Rayette Brown
AH
April Holtzhausen
Other •
Dave was always a joy to serve when I worked at the Depot. Always made me laugh. My prayers are with you through this difficult time.
KG
Kathy Grenz
Other •
I so remember David as a neighbor, he was such a joy to visit with as was Linda. As a Locksmith he got me out of trouble more than once and I also got to visit with Laverne. Deb I am so sad for your loss and know you will miss your dad very much. Meant sincerely, Kathy Grenz, your former neighbor to the south with the big German Shepherd dogs.
LW
Lou Ann Wayne
Other •
Sandy, Debbie,Randy and Families David and Laverne were neighborhood friends, we had many good times. Sorry for loss.

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