Janet “Jan” Grace (Hermstad) Manske, 84, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025 at River Landing at Sandy Ridge in Colfax, North Carolina. Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the daughter of the late Vincent and Grace (Holmberg) Hermstad and the beloved wife of the late Kenneth “Ken” Manske. Throughout her life she brought love, warmth, and quiet strength to everyone who knew her.

Jan was a devoted mother to her daughter Sheri Summerell (Ed), son Tim Manske (Jennifer), a loving grandmother to Robert Summerell (Miranda), Catherine Summerell, and Sarah Manske. She was a cherished sister to her brother Jerry Hermstad (Sandy). Jan also deeply loved her nieces Jennie Hamre (Trevor) and Joy Beasley (Dan) and their families.

Jan had a creative spirit and a generous heart. She was a gifted seamstress who made nearly all of Sheri’s dresses throughout childhood by hand. She had a deep love for music and was often seen playing piano duets with her grandchildren, or listening to organ music while getting ready for church on Sundays. She was also a meticulous organizer and those closest to her coveted her famous “Jan closet”.

Jan’s faith was a constant in her life. She rarely missed a church service on Sunday, was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Women, and truly treasured the lasting friendships she made while worshipping God.

To those who knew her, Jan was the sweetest soul—gentle, thoughtful, and full of grace. Those closest to her knew another side as well: her sharp, witty humor and perfectly timed remarks that always brought laughter and light.

Jan lived a life full of love, compassion, and quiet joy. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and kindness that will live on in everyone who’s heart she touched.

The family will receive friends at River Landing at Sandy Ridge, 1575 John Knox Drive, Colfax, NC 27235 on Tuesday June 3rd, 2025 from 2pm to 3pm. A memorial service celebrating Jan’s life will begin at 3pm with Reverend Robbin Mundy officiating.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to Hospice of the Piedmont at hospiceofthepiedmont.org/donate.