Janet Samsel

Janet E. Samsel, age 90, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Hancock on April 1, 2025. She was born on July 22, 1934, in Racine, to Norman and Charline (Barnes) Flynn.

Janet earned her R.N. degree from St. Luke's School of Nursing in Racine. She worked as a registered nurse until the birth of her second child, Jay. Then, for many years, she worked as a volunteer nurse for the American Red Cross. Her primary vocation, however, was being an exceptional mom, homemaker, and wife. She was active in the PTA, Girl Scouts, and YMCA. She made sure her children focused on school, learned to play an instrument, to swim competitively, and that her home was beautifully designed, decorated, and maintained.

When Janet and her husband, Clyde, moved from Racine to Hancock to start Samsel Sawmill & Millwork, Janet became the office manager. She continued to dedicate herself to the family business until only days before her death. Janet cherished the family land and, along with Clyde, protected a portion of it for the Ice Age Trail. She found immense joy in watching birds, tending her flower gardens, and entertaining loved ones with delightful meals. She channeled her love and creativity into various crafts, from homemade clothing for herself and her children, to elaborate seasonal decorations, to super fancy cookies and desserts, and knitting with friends. Reading and sharing books were passions in her later years. She even installed a Little Free Library at the end of her driveway.

Janet is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Clyde Samsel, her daughter, Barb Samsel Hermans (Walter Krohn), her son, Jay Samsel, and his fiancée, Stacy Merritt, and granddaughters Charline and Cristina. She is further survived by many dear nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and cousins. Janet was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jim Flynn.

Her memorial service will be held on April 5, 2025, at noon at South Burr Oak United Methodist Church, 1854 1st Drive,  Coloma, Wisconsin 54930, offering friends and family a chance to celebrate her extraordinary life and share cherished memories. Visitation will be before the service, beginning at 9:30 a.m. A meal will be served following the service. Janet will rest next to her parents and brother in West Lawn Memorial Park in Racine. Date of interment is to be determined.