Jeanette Ruth Birr

Jeanette “Jan” passed away unexpectedly working in her garden, Sunday, July 21.

She was born Jeanette Ruth Bowers to Paul S. and Ruth E. Bowers in Elkhart.  She married William R. Birr on November 29, 1959 and remained married to him until his death on May 15, 2016.

Jeanette was a 1958 graduate of Elkhart High School where she was a member of the band.  She was a lifetime member of the Elkhart City/Creekside Church of the Brethren where she served as a Sunday School teacher, Board member, district representative, fellowship team leader and deacon.  She also enjoyed being a camp counselor at Camp Mack.  She was an avid gardener, homemaker, cub scout den leader, band mom, certified nursing assistant and team leader at Crown International prior to her retirement.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her loving husband, parents and brothers, John and Jerry (Mary) Bowers.  She is survived by sons, Martin J. (Lori) and Robert J.; a daughter, Cynthia R. Birr; grandchildren, Emily (Chris) Wilson, Margaret (Tyler) Rush and James W. Tyler M. and Ryan A. Birr and great-grandchildren, Koletin, Toby and Rowan Rush.

Visitation will be Saturday, August 3, from 1 until the 3 p.m., Celebration of Life Service at Creekside Church of the Brethren, 60455 C.R. 113, Elkhart, 46517.  A Fellowship meal will follow the service.  For those wishing to attend online, the service will be available at https://creeksidecob.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Creekside Church of the Brethren, https://creeksidecob.com/ Camp Alexander Mack https://www.campmack.org or the American Heart Association https://www.heart.org/