Janna Floerke

Janna Sue Floerke, age 69, of Long Prairie, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on Friday, February 6, 2026, at her home on the farm in Long Prairie, Minnesota.

Janna was born on May 1, 1956, in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, to Floyd and Marjorie (Close) Anderson. She was raised and passed peacefully in her sleep on the farm she loved so deeply. The farm was not just her home, but the heart of countless memories, traditions, and family gatherings that defined the life they built.

She married the love of her life, Bob Floerke, on November 27, 1976. They built a life on steady love, trust, belief in each other, hard work, and unwavering support. They raised their family by modeling these values, which is the best gift they could have given their children.

Above all else, Janna loved her family fiercely. She was a proud and devoted mother to Matt, Mandi, and Megan, and an adoring “Gramma” to Dani Jules (18), Charlee Sue (15), and Daxton Robert (10). She treasured her siblings, Nancy, Karen, and Blair, as well as her many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Janna was her family’s biggest cheerleader. She rarely missed a sporting event and could often be found in the stands holding a homemade sign and a container of freshly baked cookies for the entire team, cheering loudly and proudly without hesitation. Whether it was a game, school event, or life milestone, she showed up wholeheartedly and enthusiastically because she deeply believed in celebrating the people she loved.

Her love often came through her kitchen. Janna was an extraordinary baker and cook. When Janna set her mind to perfecting a recipe, it became a mission. Family members fondly remember “the year of the cheesecake,” “the year of the caramel roll,” and “the cinnamon roll phase,” as she worked tirelessly to get every detail just right and always shared her creations with family and friends. Sharing food was her love language.

She loved gardening, fishing, card games, carble, rolling dice, and deer hunting. Janna and Bob spent all year mowing trails, building deer stands, telling stories, and planning for the upcoming hunt. Spending time together and continuing a tradition she started with her own dad meant the world to her.

She also expressed her love through service. Janna was often the first person to step forward when someone experienced loss. She deeply believed that funerals were not just about honoring the person who passed away, but about supporting the people left behind. She showed that belief through action: preparing meals, baking treats, writing thoughtful cards, or planting trees in memory of loved ones. She believed in showing up for family and friends.

Birthdays were another tradition she cherished. Janna never missed calling to sing “Happy Birthday” at the top of her lungs before even saying hello. She made each family member feel special by preparing their favorite birthday meal and cake, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Janna was also a talented quilter and crocheter. She lovingly made homemade baby blankets for family and friends, and quilts for each of her children and grandchildren. She also volunteered countless hours with her quilting friends, cutting, pinning, and sewing quilts that were donated to charities.

She had a rare gift for connecting with people. She remembered nurses and doctors by name, knew details about their families, and made each person feel seen and valued. She had a special place in her heart for the elderly and never missed an opportunity to greet them, thank them for their service, and shake their hand.

Janna fought a long and hard fight. Most would have given up after her stem cell transplant, but she persevered and proceeded with nonstop chemotherapy, endless hospital visits, heart issues because of the harsh chemo, and an unfathomable amount of needle pokes. Janna did not want attention and did this all under the radar. Publicly, Janna chose to keep her health journey personal, but privately, Bob and Janna were each other’s rock, supporting each other through everything they faced. The only person who truly knew her struggle was her devoted husband Bob, who tended to her every need when she was exhausted. Through it all, Janna remained strong and held a smile on her face. She will be remembered as a champion who did everything she could to spend more time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 50 years, Bob Floerke of Long Prairie; children, Matt Floerke of South St. Paul, Mandi Leonard of Lake Elmo, and Megan (John “favorite son-in-law”) Jacob of Sauk Centre; grandchildren, Dani Leonard, Charlee Leonard, and Daxton Jacob; siblings, Karen Severts of Fairfax and Blair (Marchell) Anderson of Long Prairie; Sue (Brian) Carlson and Deb (Ray) Drew; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Marge Anderson; her in-laws, Calvin (Gwen) Floerke and Fran Bauer; her sister, Nancy Hanson; and her brother-in-law, Larry Severts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Diamond Point on Sauk Lake in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, on Saturday, March 7th, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers or gifts, her family invites you to honor Janna by gathering with your loved ones, sharing a meal, and creating memories together.

Janna lived life fully and loved with her whole heart. Known for her strong spirit, humor, and unwavering support, she leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished traditions, and kindness that will continue through her family and all who knew her.