Janet Alice Kels

Janet Alice Kels, 94, of Everett, PA, passed away surrounded by her family on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

 

She was born in Johnstown, PA, on August 21, 1931, a daughter of the late Louis Frederick Kels and Annice M. (Michelbacher) Kels.

 

Janet is survived by a son, David Allen Zimmerman; a daughter, Janet Lee Zimmerman; three grandchildren, Lyndsay Rae Suter, Lennae Allane Trotter, and Logan David Zimmerman; six great-grandchildren, Aubrey Ellen Suter, Whitney Ryan Suter, Summer Gail Suter, Henry Kent Trotter, Miles Logan Trotter, and Lewis Matthew Trotter; a niece, Jane Anne Barnes; two nephews, Daniel Hillenbrand and Brian Barnes; and great nephew, Timothy Barnes.

 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in passing by a sister, Virginia Lee Hillenbrand.

 

Janet was a proud graduate of Westmount High School, Class of 1949. After graduation, she followed her deep love of music, teaching clarinet at the Johnstown College of Music and performing with the Johnstown Symphony. Her faith was the steady center of her life—she was a godly woman who taught Sunday school and lead Bible studies for local senior citizens, sharing encouragement and Scripture with a gentle, steady spirit.

 

A gifted storyteller, Janet, brought joy to many through her time at the library, where her imagination and warmth made stories come alive. She had a wide range of passions that reflected her creativity and compassion: cross-stitch, ceramics, traveling--especially to her beloved Germany--and offering friendship and rehabilitation to abused and injured dogs who needed a safe place to heal.

 

Janet was known as a solid, dependable presence, someone people could trust and turn to. She was deeply loved by many. Above all, she was the best mother and grandmother anyone could hope for, pouring love, wisdom, and kindness into every moment she shared with her family.

 

There is comfort in knowing she has surely heard the words she lived her life to hear “well done, my good and faithful servant.”

 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bedford County Humane Society, 182 Bohn Rd. Bedford, PA 15522

 

A celebration of life service will be held for family and friends at a later date.

 

Friends and family may share memories online at www.donelsonfuneralhome.com

 

Arrangements by Donelson Funeral Home LLC, Everett, PA.