Janice Whitaker

Janice was born in Blackwell Oklahoma, where she lived until her father unexpectedly passed. Janice moved to Arkansas City, Kansas with her mother where she was raised and graduated from Arkansas City High School. She then went to Arkansas City Junior college, where she met the love of her life Al Whitaker. Of this union, two daughter’s were born (Karen and Carolyn). Eventually , Janice went to Wichita State University where she obtained her Bachelor in Education degree. She began her career substituting in Wichita, Kansas, and then in 1972 began a 25 year career teaching 5th grade, in Clearwater, Kansas. She retired from Clearwater school system in 1997.

During the time the couple taught, they enjoyed taking their daughter’s across the United States to not only visit family, but to visit different historic landmarks, National Parks, and amusement parks. They took their family camping and fishing with friends. After retirement, she was actively camping, fishing, and traveled to all 50 states in the United States. Janice visited 40 different countries outside of the United States. She was a member of ACAP.

She was a member of Central Community Church, and a member of the Motivator’s Sunday school class.

Janice loved eating out and visiting with family and friends. She enjoyed many years of watching Wichita State Basketball. She was an avid sports fan watching many levels of basketball, baseball, and tennis.

Janice loved being with her family and going on adventures with them. She instilled the love of learning and never giving up with her girls and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all, but forever in our hearts.

She was preceded in death by husband Al, parents Loyd and Elizabeth Hentrich. Survivors include, daughters Karen Oak (Michael Sr.), Carolyn Jones (Dale), grandchildren Kathryn Peek (Charles), Emily Grundman (Jonathan), Dr. Daniel Jones (Josh Meltzer). Great grandchildren include Cameron and Katrina Peek and Jacob and Hannah Grundman.

Visitation will be from 5-7pm, Tuesday April 15 at Broadway Mortuary. Graveside services on April 16th at 1 pm at Greenwood cemetery. 

• A memorial has been established with:
• Clearwater 5th Grade Library Books in Janice Whitaker's name
• USD 264
• 151 S. 1st Ave,
• Clearwater, KS 67026