Janice (Jan) Caroline Zumach Block passed away at the age of 83 on August 2nd. She was born January 26, 1941 in Lone Rock, IA. Jan resided in Anoka, MN with her husband, Larry Block, of 55 years.

Jan was a teacher for 39 years. She started her career in Albert City, IA after graduating from Estherville Junior College. Janice moved to Blue Earth, MN and taught for six years. She transferred to her "big" classroom at Washington Elementary in Anoka, MN. The Washington staff, including spouses, enjoyed super club dates, bowling leagues, and card nights. Janice completed her Masters in Education from Mankato State during her tenure in District 11. She was a leader in the design of the Peter Enich Kindergarten Center. Her fellow colleagues appreciated the room layouts and how perfect they were for five year olds. As a co-chair, Janice led the Minnesota Kindergarten Association Conference through a successful professional development experience. After 32 years of serving Anoka-Hennepin School District as a kindergarten teacher, Jan retired in 1999.

Janice was an active member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church. She was a member of the choir and bell choir. The music rich Christmas Eve and Easter Morning worship services were her favorites. During her daughters' childhood years, Jan taught Sunday school, led children's music, and facilitated years of VBS. Janice served with the Lutheran Women's Missionary League of Mt. Olive and attended conventions as a delegate. Many items were collected for international missions through her efforts. The Bible studies and devotions she led were meaningful and thoughtful. As a chair member, Jan managed the financial records and purchased items for the funeral committee. She could also be found serving as part of the church catering team. She co-lead many Bloodmobile drives. Jan was a pillar in the church community.

The Anoka community also felt Jan's presence. She participated in the Halloween parades with her kindergarteners, Girl Scouts, and daughters. She was also on the catering team for the visiting royalty meals for the Halloween pageant. Janice was a Membership Liaison Volunteer for the Anoka Community Concert Association bringing years of professional music groups to the community. As season ticket holders, Jan and Larry enjoyed many Lyric Arts performances.

Jan was one of the most selfless people to know. She was concerned with everyone's well being before her own. If you needed help with a fundraiser, tearing sheets for medical bandages, or to listen, you could count on her. Janice leaves a giant gap in the goodness of humanity with her passing, yet, her spirit continues to surround and guide us.

She found joy in the simplest things, and in doing so, taught us to appreciate those little moments that make life beautiful. Janice enjoyed time in the garden, a good book, and all aspects of music. Her husband, daughters, son-in-laws, and grandchildren were her focus and never forgotten. Her family, especially her grandchildren, brought her joy and filled her with pride. Jan never missed a concert, a sporting event, or special occasion. Holidays were cherished times for Jan and her family. Many traditions, like decorating cookies, making pickles, and traveling, will be carried on. As we move on as a family, we will be watching out for each other and trying to live up to the example she set.

Survived by husband Larry Block, daughters Heidi (and Charles) Zemek of Victoria, MN and Heather (and Jarrod) McClaine of Stillwater, MN, grandchildren Callen Zemek, Benett Zemek, Alicianna McClaine, Trevor McClaine, and Samara McClaine, sisters Arlene (and Danford) Schmidt of Nerstrand, MN and Carol Berkland of Ft. Myers, FL and brother-in-law Roger (and Anita) Block of Truman, MN.

Preceded in death by parents Arthur and Hilda (Peter) Zumach of Lone Rock, IA, in-laws Arthur Block of Amboy, MN and Elvera Block (and Arthur) Moeller of Truman, MN, siblings Ruth (and Charles) Hallbauer of Sioux City, IA and Gerald Zumach of Lone Rock, IA, and sister-in-law Lois (and Les) Wiborg of Blue Earth, MN. As well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins and a nephew.

Funeral services will be at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Anoka, MN on Saturday, August 17th. Visitation will be at 10:00 AM and the service at 11:00 AM.

Janice believed, "As long as God gives life. He gives life meaning and purpose." She had both.

Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home - Anoka, MN - 763-421-0220 - www.thurston-lindberg.com