Janice Parker passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at her home in Askov at the age of 86.

Janice LaVon Ankrum was born on May 21, 1940, to Henry and JoAnn (Sportel) Ankrum in Sibley, Iowa. Her life reflected a deep love for her Lord and her family. Gifted at bringing loved ones together, she was the heart of countless family gatherings, holiday celebrations, birthday parties, and Twins and Vikings watch parties.

Janice was a devoted grandmother and great grandmother. She loved preparing after-school snacks, keeping up with her grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s activities, hearing about their grades and adventures, and staying connected even with family who lived out of state. She also enjoyed playing board games and card games with adults, grandchildren, and great grandchildren alike.

Janice was active in her community and in her faith. She volunteered in the community, helped at church, worked at the thrift store, quilted with her church sisters, and exercised at the gym. She used her talents to make homemade blankets, quilts, cloth diapers, and layettes for families in need, including those in other countries.

She also loved time outdoors, especially in the woods and at the lake. Janice was an avid flower gardener and kept several bird feeders filled, enjoying the beauty and activity they brought to her home.

In earlier years, Janice enjoyed snowmobiling, polka dancing, and hosting canasta, card, and game nights with friends and family. She also loved attending dinner theater performances, whether at a small-town production or at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres.

Janice is survived by her children, Kim (Mark) Humann of Askov and Craig (Elizabeth) Parker of Oakalla, Texas; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Juanita (Marvin) White of Askov; sisters- and brother-in-law, Mabel (Dale) Field of St. Cloud and Mary Parker of Sandstone; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and JoAnn Ankrum; husband, Henry Parker; siblings, Joyce Harmon, Judy (Alvin) Carlson, and Larry (Eileen) Ankrum; and sisters- and brothers-in-law, Laurie Parker, Dan (Peg) Parker, Bill (Louise) Parker, Harley (Sandy) Parker, and Jeannie (Roger) Larson.

Pastor Clara Schaumburg-Edin will officiate the funeral service for Janice at 11 AM; Thursday, (9/24) a visitation will be held 1 hour prior to the service at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Askov. The family invites guests to stay for lunch following the funeral service.

Memorials in Janice’s memory may be directed to the:
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
6318 Kirke Alle Ext
Askov, MN 55704

Funeral arrangements for Janice Parker are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City ~ Swanson Chapel

FuneralAndCremationService.com