Janie C. (Schaake) Harris, 87, passed away with family by her side, Monday, March 14th at Presbyterian Manor in Lawrence, KS. She was born January 16, 1935 to Charles and Isabelle Schaake. Janie grew up on a farm in Lawrence until her family moved to town in 1951 after the flood.

She graduated from Liberty Memorial High School in 1953. After graduation, she attended the University of Kansas, receiving a degree in Elementary Education. Janie taught school in Topeka and Lawrence.

Janie started dating John while they were in high school. They were married September 2, 1956 at First Christian Church, Lawrence.

Throughout her life, she volunteered for countless activities at First Christian Church. She was also an election poll worker for many years. Her hobbies included playing bridge, flower gardening, sewing, and craft projects. Janie will forever be known for her rugs and potholders. She was always excited to spend time with her family and furry loved ones.

Janie is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, John, daughter Jan, son-in-law Tim Matlack, grandson Johnathan Matlack, granddaughter Kelly Mayer and her husband Adam, great granddaughter Adalee Joy Mayer, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Dwane and sister-in-law Dorothy Schaake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Janie's name to the Good Samaritan Fund at Presbyterian Manor, or to a charity of donor's choice and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

A graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 19th at Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9-10:30 a.m. prior to the graveside at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. The casket will be closed.

For more information or to post a condolence, go to warrenmcelwain.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Mar. 18, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Janie Harris

9 Entries

Nancy Vogel

March 12, 2023

Thinking of many good visits today. Comfort to John, Jan, and Family. --Nancy Vogel

Reece Wiley

March 11, 2023

Sadly, gone; but never forgotten.
Gott mit uns.

Bob and Kathy Proctor

April 1, 2022

We just recently learned of Janie's passing, and we are sorry to hear of your loss. Janie was a delightful friend to be around, and I enjoyed working with her at First Christian for many years. You and your family are in our prayers.

Don Marquis

March 21, 2022

This lovely woman was our next door neighbor fifty years ago. She made the neighborhood a much better place. My condolences to John and Jan.

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Natalie Donovan

March 19, 2022

I was fortunate enough to get to know Janie and her husband in her last years. She had a wonderful wit and so much joy in her heart. She was a very special lady.

Reece Wiley

March 18, 2022

A wonderful fixture at First Christian Church--ever and always available to help anyone anytime. Heaven has a new greeter and aide.

Bill Alburty

March 18, 2022

Jainie and my sister Virginia Penny were good
friends. Sad that they are both now gone.

Mary and Mark Elzea

March 18, 2022

So sorry to hear of your loss, John and Jan. I know how mom valued their friendship, and I always loved visiting with Janie - her personality was always so bubbly and she was fun to be with. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Judy Heller

March 17, 2022

Janie was the very definition of a woman who was full of grace. She was a loyal friend, a loving wife, and never had a harsh word for anyone. What a blessing to have known her.

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