William Janssen

WILLIAM M. JANSSEN, age 88 of Rensselaer passed away October 18, 2009 at Jasper County Hospital. He was born in Peoria, IL on December 29, 1920, son of the late John and Mary (Schmidt) Janssen. He had lived in Rensselaer since early childhood and graduated from Rensselaer High School in 1939. He is a Veteran of the U.S. Army. On June 16, 1953 in Rensselaer he married Lucy M. Nelson. She died on October 2, 1999. He was a self-employed building contractor, retiring about 1985, but always enjoyed working with wood, even in his retirement. He was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church of Rensselaer. Surviving is a daughter: Frieda (Wayne) Bretzinger of Rensselaer; sons, Chris (Margaret) Janssen of Plainfield, IN and Douglas (Afzia) Janssen of Greenwood, IN; 4 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, sister and brother. Friends may call at Steinke Funeral Home from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, October 20th. A Funeral Mass will be at St. Augustine Catholic Church at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, October 21st with Fr. Tim Knepper officiating. Internment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with Military Graveside Services.