Janet Marie Newman

Janet Marie (Brink) Newman  April 21, 1951 – July 2, 2025 Oakdale, MN 

Janet Marie Newman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in the loving arms of her husband of 53 years, Gary Newman. 

Born in St. Paul, MN to Raymond and Helen Brink, Janet grew up on the city’s east side attending Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church and graduating from Johnson High School. It was in nineth grade that she met the love of her life—Gary. Together they built a life centered around family, faith, and friendships, some of which go back to her formative years on Hyacinth Street. 

After graduating from the University of Minnesota College of Education, Janet spent her career as a third-grade teacher in the Mahtomedi School District and retired in 2013. She touched countless young lives with her kindness, patience, and passion for education.  

Janet and Gary created a home together where family gathered and traditions were nurtured - holiday dinners, 4th of July week at the lake, trips to visit family or vacations to Hawaii and Disney to name a few. Janet’s biggest delight was in her three children: Bryan, Kelly and Jill. She was the one capturing their milestones either by taking pictures or behind the video camera, narrating and sharing her warm laugh. Her talents for bringing the family together carry forward in her children. They created an enduring memory when celebrating Janet and Gary’s 50th anniversary bringing together stories, laughter and a few tears in true Janet fashion. 

Her love for children was immeasurable and becoming a grandmother brought her boundless joy. Whether she was snuggling up with them reading a book, playing games, or simply making her grandchildren laugh, she made each one feel special and deeply loved. 

She was the family trip planner, cheerleader, and attentive listener, always welcoming and ready to visit into the late hours. She could be heard singing throughout the house, ready with a warm hug, and extending her welcoming heart. Janet lived with grace, strength and resilience—especially during her 10-year journey with Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia. Gary remained her constant, doing everything in his power to keep life as normal as possible—full of comfort and love. 

Janet was known for her radiant smile, hugs, and the way she made everyone feel seen and valued. She lived with an open heart, grounded in faith, and surrounded by love. Her compassion, generosity and fun-loving spirit left a mark on everyone who had the joy of knowing her. She was truly a light in this world—and that light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her.  

Janet is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Helen Brink and in-laws, Al and Mae Newman. Janet is survived by her devoted husband, Gary, their three children, Bryan (Erin) Newman, Kelly (Tim) Johannsen and Jill Newman; and six treasured grandchildren— Fletcher, Burton and Corinne Newman and Taya, Mila, and Kala Johannsen. She is also survived by her sisters Karin Brink and Judy (Bruce) Engebretson, along with many beloved in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Celebration of Life will be held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 2499 N Helen Street, North St. Paul on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 AM until the Celebration of Life. Lunch will be served after the service for those who wish to stay and share memories. We invite you to honor her joyful spirit by wearing colorful attire to the service.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a gift to the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) or Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) in Janet’s name.