Jan Marie Kaaz

Janice Marie Kaaz (nee Tiesler), known affectionately as Jan, peacefully passed away on November 5, 2023, in Sunset Hills, Missouri. Born on April 16, 1930, at St. Mary's Hospital St. Louis, Missouri, she was the beloved daughter of Oscar and Marie Tiesler. Her childhood years were spent in Kirkwood, Missouri. She was baptized May 4, 1930, confirmed on June 13, 1943 and married to Edward (Ed) Kaaz on December 27, 1953 all at Concordia Lutheran Church in Kirkwood, Missouri. Jan's dedication to education led her to a career as an elementary school teacher in Atchison, Kansas, where she had the fortune of meeting her cherished husband, Ed. Upon returning to the St. Louis area, while raising her children she was a substitute teacher and was the pioneer preschool teacher at St. Paul's Lutheran School in Des Peres, Missouri. Jan's commitment to shaping young minds left an indelible impact on the lives of many. Jan held her faith close to her heart and found solace in the embrace of Concordia Lutheran Church in Kirkwood, Missouri; Trinity Lutheran Church in Atchison, Kansas; and St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Des Peres, Missouri. Her devotion to her religious community was a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength, guidance, and a sense of belonging. In addition to her professional and spiritual pursuits, Jan was an original member of the church handbell choir and extended her warmth as a greeter, ensuring that all who entered the church felt welcomed and valued. She enjoyed playing bridge and pinochle with friends, camping with family and friends and offering her help to anyone needing assistance. Family meant everything to Jan. She leaves behind her loving son, Raymond (Linda) Kaaz, and daughter, Nancy (Jim) Hart. Jan's role as a grandmother brought immeasurable joy to her heart, and she adored her four granddaughters, ten great-grandchildren, and one heavenly great-granddaughter. Jan also held a special place in her heart for her nieces and nephews and many friends. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 11, to honor Jan's memory. The service will take place at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 12345 Manchester Road, Des Peres, Missouri 63131. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Internment will be immediately following the service at St. Paul's Cemetery, 921 N Ballas Road, Des Peres, Missouri; all are welcome. To honor Jan's legacy, contributions can be made to St. Paul's Lutheran School in Des Peres, Missouri. These donations will support the Tell the Wonders He Has Done building campaign, ensuring that future generations receive the same educational opportunities Jan valued. Oak Hill Cemetery and Chapel Hill Mortuary in Kirkwood, Missouri is assisting the family by providing support and guidance. Janice Marie Kaaz will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her commitment to education, her unwavering faith, and her dedication to her loved ones serve as an enduring legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who mourn her loss.

Jan Marie Kaaz

April 16, 1930 - November 5, 2023