Janell Diane Wilken Harper

Janell Diane Wilken Harper, born on September 10, 1943, in Decatur, Indiana, to the late Richard C. and Waneta (Conrad) Franz. She passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. A cherished member of her community and beloved family member, Janell's legacy is woven into the hearts of many who knew her.

Janell began her professional journey as a teacher in Illinois before dedicating the majority of her career to serving as a mail carrier in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Her years of hard work culminated in a well-deserved retirement, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her role in the community. Beyond her career, Janell found joy in various pursuits, including her early years as a member of 4H, where she particularly enjoyed the sewing club.

Married to Edward Harper on February 2, 2008, at Emanuel Lutheran in New Haven, Indiana, Janell embraced her role as a loving wife, and the two shared countless cherished moments together. They continued to build upon the precious bonds of family, reinforcing the love and support that defined Janell’s life. As a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, Fuelling, Janell devoted her service to help with funeral dinners, demonstrating her caring spirit and desire to support others in times of need.

Janell was deeply devoted to her family, and there was no love greater than the one she held for her son and granddaughters. She found immense joy in watching them grow, cheering them on through every milestone, and basking in the love they brought into her life. Her grandchildren, Cally, Hannah, and Jenna Wilken, were treasured lights in her world, filling her days with laughter and warmth.

Possessing a welcoming personality, Janell had the remarkable ability to make others feel at ease. From her gardening and canning experiences to the nurturing relationships she built, she cultivated an environment of kindness and generosity. She was always quick to lend a helping hand or share a smile, reminding everyone around her of the beauty in connection and the importance of community.

Janell leaves behind her loving husband, Ed Harper of Monroeville, Indiana; brother, Kent (Sandy) Franz of Hoagland, Indiana; two sisters, LouAnn (William) Beery of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Donna (Dale) Schlemmer of Gladstone, Michigan; daughter-in-law, Katherine Wilken of New Haven, Indiana; sister-in-law, Marge Franz of Decatur, Indiana; loving granddaughters, Cally, Hannah, and Jenna Wilken who will carry her spirit forward with every cherished memory; and her former husband, James Wilken of Emmitsburg, Maryland. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Janell was preceded in death by her beloved son, Scott M. Wilken, who left this world on April 30, 2008; her brother, Ron Franz; a sister-in-law, Sandy Franz; and a nephew, Derek Franz. Their absence, while profoundly felt, has created a bond that transcends time and space.

A funeral service for Janell will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 24, 2025, at St. Peter Lutheran Church – Fuelling with Pastor Leonard Tanksley officiating. Burial will follow at St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery, Fuelling. 

Family and friends will be received from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, February 23, 2025, at St. Peter Lutheran Church- Fuelling and one hour prior to the service on Monday at the church. 

The legacy of Janell Diane Wilken Harper will be forever cherished. In our memories, she will remain a shining example of love, resilience, and a life beautifully lived. She will be missed deeply, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers preferred memorial can be given to St. Peter Lutheran Church-Fuelling, St. Peter-Immanuel Lutheran School, or Worship Anew. 

Arrangements are by Zwick and Jahn Funeral Home, Jacobs Chapel of Monroeville, Indiana.