Janice "Jan" Kotschwar

Janice “Jan” Kotschwar, age 57, of McCook, NE, passed away at her home in McCook on April 2, 2024.

Jan was born in Hastings, Nebraska, on February 26, 1967, to her parents Gerald and Judith (Hogeland) Thompson.

Janice, known to friends as "Jan," had a vibrant spirit and a heart full of love. She graduated from Sandy Creek High School in 1986 and went on to build a life surrounded by family and friends who meant the world to her.

On June 6, 1987, Jan married Joseph Kotschwar in Fairfield, NE. The couple was blessed with three children. 

In her free time, Jan found joy in various hobbies and interests that brought out her creativity and sense of adventure. From crafting and painting to playing APA pool and collecting rocks, she had a diverse set of passions that showcased her unique personality. Jan also had a deep appreciation for attending music concerts, especially the Pondstock Music Festival in Trenton. Her love for sunflowers, dogs, and motorcycle rides reflected her appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Terry Thompson; sister, Susan Thompson; and foster father, Gene Smith. 

Jan is survived by her son, Brock Kotschwar of Hays, KS; daughters, Carissa (Jonathan) Bollig of Hays, KS and Amber Kotschwar of Culbertson, NE; foster mother, Carole Smith of Hastings, NE; stepfather Joseph Medina of Franklin, NE; brothers Dean (Marya) Thompson of Hastings, NE, Gary (Barb) Thompson of Williston, ND and foster brother Paul (Yvonne) Smith of Gering, NE; sisters Alice (Rod) Jacobitz of Minden, NE, twin sister, Jody (Wayne) Stewart of McCook, NE, Kelly (Ron) Watters of Beaver City, NE, Khrista Medina of Brighton CO and foster sister, Becky (Alan) Halsey of Hastings NE; four grandchildren Darryl, Jeremy, Vance, Briley; as well as countless nieces, nephews and other family members.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the McCook Humane Society, PO Box 13, McCook, NE 69001

A Final Farewell Book Signing with family greeting friends will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 pm  on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home, McCook.