Janet Marie Mangledorf

Janet "Jan" Marie Mangledorf (Sterling) With deep love and heartfelt sadness, we share the passing of Janet "Jan" Marie Mangledorf (Sterling), age 77, on August 19, 2026, after a short illness. Jan was born on July 4, 1949, in Fremont, Ohio, to David and Gladys Sterling. After coming to Minnesota, Jan met David "Dave" Mangledorf, and they married on January 31, 1970. After living for a short period in Pipestone, MN, they settled in New Hope, Minnesota, where they raised their daughters, Hope and Erin. In 2005, Jan and Dave retired to their longtime lake home on Lake Alexander in Cushing, Minnesota. Jan lived her life in motion, rarely sitting still and always finding joy in "puttering" around the house, tackling projects with Dave, visiting with friends and neighbors, or lending a hand wherever it was needed. She was a volunteer throughout her daughters' school years, a longtime Girl Scout leader, and a church volunteer. Her creativity and care extended to her garden, where she nurtured beautiful flowers (and waged friendly battles with weeds). A crafter and knitter, Jan spent many cherished hours at The Center in Brainerd with "the knitting ladies," creating blankets, crafting, sharing stories, and enjoying the friendships formed there. Among her greatest joys were her grandchildren. Jan's famous annual "Grandma Camps" became a treasured tradition-filled with surprises, adventures, and laughter. As the kids grew older, she delighted in watching them take the lead, planning the week's activities, cooking meals together, and continuing the fun in new ways. Jan is survived by her husband of 56 years, Dave Mangledorf; daughters, Hope (Chad) Hudrlik and Erin (Rob) Bolla; grandchildren, Hailey and Jack Hudrlik and Chloe and Wyatt Bolla; sister, Mary Ann (Gary) McNair of Fremont, Ohio; brothers, Mark (Gaye) Sterling of Helena, Ohio, and Tom (Rebecca) Sterling of Fremont, Ohio and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Glady Sterling, and her brother, Lloyd Sterling. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Your thoughts, prayers, and memories are deeply appreciated during this time. In accordance with Jan's wishes, no public services will be held. The family warmly welcomes cards, notes, and shared memories sent to her husband, Dave.

Janet Marie Mangledorf

July 4, 1949 - August 19, 2026

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