Janis M. Wessel, 94, of Syracuse, formerly of Avoca, passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Good Samaritan Society in Syracuse. She was born on April 15, 1931, in Syracuse to Harvey J. Harms Sr. and Clara (Engelbrecht) Harms.

Janis graduated from Syracuse High School and was united in marriage to George Wessel on February 1, 1952, at the First Lutheran Church (North Branch) in rural Avoca. Together they made their home on the family farm, where Janis was a devoted farmwife, helping with the dairy and all aspects of farm life. After moving from the farm, she worked at Maverick Media for 20 years.

Janis was known for her kindness, her warm hospitality, and her love of cooking and baking. She enjoyed gardening and was always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Family meant everything to her, and she took great joy in being a loving mother and grandmother.
She is survived by her children, Gene Wessel and Connie (Raymond) O'Connor; grandchildren, Talon O'Connor and Quentin (Aubrieanna) O'Connor; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings, Harvey J. Harms Jr., Kenneth Harms, and Helen Kepler.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery near Nehawka, NE.

Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements By: Fusselman Allen Harvey Funeral Home, Syracuse

Condolences to www.fusselmanallenharvey.com