Janet’s life began on Dec. 5, 1919, in Cassopolis, the daughter of French and Minnie (Tice) Shurte.

She was united in marriage to George Kidman on Oct. 16, 1941, in Dowagiac. Janet, 90, of Cassopolis, was court official for Friend of the Court in Cassopolis.

She retired in 1983 after 25 years of service.

She was a member since 1953 of the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary in Dowagiac, where she served as treasurer for more than 40 years. She was the former 7th District pPresident.
Janet enjoyed crocheting and was an avid bowler. She enjoyed cheering for her grandchildren at all of their sporting events.

Janet was a proud mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Her loving family includes: her children, Michael (Fran) Kidman of Cassopolis, Karen (Bill) Behnke of Cassopolis, Vicki (Don) Eisman of South Bend, Ind., and Mike (Carol) Townsend of Cassopolis; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Janet passed away on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009 ,at Cass County Medical Care Facility.
She was preceded in death by her husband George on May 10, 1989; parents, French and Minnie Shurte; sister, Frances Riley; niece, Patricia Riley; and nephew, Richard Riley.
Her family gathered with friends on Sunday from 4 to 7p.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel, where her funeral services will be held on Monday at 2 p.m.

She will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Dowagiac.

Memorial contributions in her name may be directed to the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary in Dowagiac.

Please sign her guestbook and leave a memory of Janet at www.yazel-clark.com.