Janice Marie Heckel

Janice Heckel passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, after a brief and unexpected illness. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be Tuesday, May 26 at 10:00 a.m., followed by Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Sterling. A private interment at Fort Logan National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Janice was born to Mary and Joseph Lauer on August 27, 1940, in Sterling, Colorado. She grew up in Crook, where family and hard work were at the heart of daily life. She and Delbert shared 67 years of marriage marked by his Navy service in California, life on the farm, her work in administrative support roles, and a lifelong commitment to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Fittingly, she left this world with her family by her side.

Janice found joy in the simple, meaningful things—baking, sewing, gardening and making handmade cards for those she loved. Her great-grandchildren especially delighted in placing orders for cookies, cakes, and pies, knowing their requests would be delivered promptly by “Gram Dash”. Gram and Pops have also spent countless hours faithfully supporting the many activities of their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Gene, Bill and Randy, in laws Diana and Connie; nieces Michelle and Kristi; and nephews Greg and Jim.

Janice leaves behind her husband Delbert and their children Kris (Don) Schell; Kent (Ann) Heckel; and Rick Heckel. She will be missed by her grandchildren and their families, Daniel and Megan Schell and their children Braxton and Carson; Erik and Samantha Schell and their children Wyatt, Hunter, Knox and Lainey; Jacob and Brooke Heckel and Weston; and Emily and Jake Spence and Ava Ann. She will be remembered by her siblings Fran (Duane) Janicek; Jerry Lauer, and Bob Lauer, as well as in-laws Gail Lauer, Jerry and Joyce Heckel and Roy Heckel.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice.