Janet M. Tettenborn

Janet Marie (Konow) Tettenborn, 79, of Winona, Minnesota, and formerly of Ripon, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, surrounded by her daughters, Sara, Caryn, and Jayne.

Born on March 20, 1946, in Ripon, Wisconsin, Janet was the eldest of three daughters of Charles and Meta (Thiel) Konow. In her early years, she cherished family picnics and time spent with her cousins and extended family. During high school and college, she lived above Roadhouse and worked at Davis Super Market. Janet was part of Ripon High School’s Class of 1964—the first class to graduate from the ‘new school.’ She earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Library Science.

Janet began her teaching career in Green Lake as a student teacher and later taught physical education for three years in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin. On July 10, 1971, she married Wilton Tettenborn, and together they raised three daughters in Ripon, where they built a home in Country Acres. While raising her family, Janet held a variety of jobs that reflected her hardworking nature – from being a Keebler elf at Rippin’ Good Cookies, to working at area canning companies, and as a grocery store demonstrator. Many will remember “Mrs. Tettenborn” as a long-time substitute teacher in Ripon, Green Lake, and Brandon. In her later years, she worked at The Company Store, managing customer complaints, and remained employed there until her passing.

After her divorce and the birth of her beloved grandchildren, Cody and Sonia, Janet moved to Winona, Minnesota, to be closer to them. Known affectionately as Grandma Janet—or “Grazma,” as they called her—she was a constant supporter at their sporting events, school plays, and every life milestone. Her greatest joy was being part of their lives, and they cherished every moment spent with her. When her third grandchild, Isabelle, was born, she embraced a new name, Grandma T, with the same warmth and devotion. Grandma said the best days of her life were spent with her kids and grandkids. Janet was a breast cancer survivor who met life’s challenges with quiet strength. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave and countless memories she created with everyone who came into her life.

Janet loved to travel and collect souvenirs—especially magnets, spoons, and shopping bags—from her adventures. She embraced Christmas with childlike delight, enjoyed craft fairs and quirky shops like Horsfall’s in Lansing, and looked forward each fall to apple treats in Gays Mills. Her simple pleasures included life along the Mississippi River, a cold Diet Pepsi, dark russet potato chips, and filling her home with fresh flowers and vibrant annuals. Wherever she went, she had a knack for finding the best sweets.

Janet is survived by her three daughters, Sara (Arthur) Howen, Caryn (Brian) Boegel, and Jayne Tettenborn; her grandchildren, Cody Howen, Sonia Howen, and Isabelle Boegel; and her sister, Diane (Konow) Strahota. She is further survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews. Janet was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Susanne Konow; and her former husband, Wilton Tettenborn.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ferris, Mary, and the compassionate staff at Winona Health for their dedicated care over the years. Special thanks to Drs. Thomas and Hussain at Mayo Clinic Health System Hospital in La Crosse, and to Dr. Dines, Shannon, and Mia of Mayo’s Home Dialysis program for their exceptional support and kindness. Deepest appreciation also goes to the staff at The Lutheran Home and AccentCare for surrounding Janet with warmth and dignity in her final days—especially Ashley, whose gentle presence and care brought great comfort to both Janet and her family.

A visitation honoring Janet will be held Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Butzin-Marchant Funeral Home, 515 Mayparty Dr., Ripon, Wisconsin, 54971, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Ashley Nolte of Pilgrim United Church of Christ. A luncheon and time of remembrance will follow. Cremation and private inurnment will take place at a later date.

Guests are invited to wear their favorite Birkenstocks or other comfortable sandals in her honor. Janet cherished the beauty of all flowers, with a special fondness for yellow. Flowers of any color are welcome. Memorial contributions may be made to the children’s charity of your choice. In memory of Janet, enjoy a sweet treat, embrace the simple joys, and hold your loved ones close.