Janice M. Ashley

Janice (Jan) Marie Ashley, age 69, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2025. Born on November 23, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

 Jan was known for her generous heart, strong spirit, and unwavering love for her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harold and Dorothy VanderLind (Kersjes). Jan is survived by her devoted partner of 28 years, Jim Hansen; her daughters, Jody (Chris) Babb and Melinda (Seth) Pawloski, and their father, Mitch Ashley. She was a proud grandmother to Mitchell (Brittany) Cross, David (Amanda) Ashley, Scott (Maggie) Babb, Abigail (Drew) Griffin, Luke, Keturah, Naomi, Isaac, Elijah, and Mattias Pawloski. Jan also cherished her bonus children, Jess (Mike) Spurlock and Josh (Katrina) Hansen, and their children, Courtney (Garrett) Barrow, Kolby, Logan, and Klara. She leaves behind 12 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Jan is also survived by her loving siblings: Carol (Richard) Barber, Patricia Wheeler, Gary (Debbie) VanderLind, Ron VanderLind, and Jeff (Mary) VanderLind, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A hard worker with a giving soul, Jan dedicated 25 years to Rockford Fosgate, where she helped create quality speakers, and later brought her passion for gardening to Michigan Bulb. She also worked at an auto parts store and lovingly cared for her friend’s daughter, Angel. Jan had a deep love for animals—especially horses, dogs, and cats—and could often be found riding, caring for pets, or simply enjoying their companionship. She had a great love of music and a special gift for bringing joy to others through her kindness and willingness to help anyone in need. Her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Jan’s life will be held at 4468 Moffet Rd NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321 on Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 12pm to 5pm (come and go as you please).

In honor of Jan's love for being casual, please come in Jean/shorts, t-shirts, bare feet or flipflops. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local animal shelter or plant a flower in her memory.

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