Cynthia (Cindy) Janzen, 75, died Aug. 16, 2023, at Greencroft Healthcare in Goshen, Ind., from causes related to Alzheimer’s disease.
She was born March 6, 1948, in Newton Kan., to Ben V. and Ruth (Schrag) Wedel, the second of four girls. She grew up on the family farm near Moundridge, Kan., where she began grade school in a one-room school. After graduating from Moundridge High School, she attended Bethel College before transferring to Goshen College where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
As a nurse, Cindy worked in pediatrics, home health and diabetes education. Her last job was private duty.
She married David Janzen in 1970. He survives, along with sons Ben of Middlebury, Ind., Steve and Tony (Denise Reesor) of Goshen, sisters Pat (Mark) Rupp, Moundridge, Pauletta (Stan) Brodhagen of Wichita Kan., and Connie (Rex) Esau of Austin, Texas; and a special cousin, Mary (Ray) Hunsberger of Goshen.
Preceding her in death were her parents and a stillborn daughter, Maria Hope. Cindy was baptized upon confession of faith by Arnold Nickel at Eden Mennonite Church, Moundridge, and faithfully served her Lord throughout her life. She was among the founding members of Fellowship of Hope Mennonite Church in Elkhart. Her legendary sense of humor brightened the days of family, patients, church and community friends. Her musical talents in voice and flute contributed to several choirs and the church music group over the years.
Among her community service ventures were serving as a board member and volunteer at Loveway Inc. and leading an Alzheimer’s support group. As a teenager, she participated in an open housing march inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. while doing a short-term volunteer stint in Chicago.
While her mental and physical capacities were stolen by Alzheimer’s, her pleasant personality remained. She was a favorite among the healthcare staff as her attentive eyes and frequent smile affirmed those who cared for her. She was a special gift of God that blessed her family.
Memorial services were held Sept. 9 at College Mennonite Church in Goshen.
