Jane A. Van Maanen, mother, grandmother, teacher, and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on Feb. 14, 2025, at the age of 87.
A memorial visitation will be held at Rude’s Funeral Home in Brookings, SD, on Friday, March 14, from 4–7 p.m., with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m.
Memorial services will take place on Saturday March,15, at 10 a.m. at Brookings Christian Church. Please come dressed in SDSU or bright colors to celebrate Jane’s beautiful life!
Born on May 28, 1937, in Estelline, SD, to Eugene and Ferne Kinney, Jane attended Bruce High School while also working on the family farm. She later married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Ken Van Maanen, in 1957. Together, they built a life filled with love and faith, raising their son, Brad. Jane and Ken were blessed with nearly 67 years of marriage and are now reunited once again in heaven.
Jane pursued her passion for education at General Beadle Teachers College (now Dakota State University), where she earned her teaching degree. She dedicated her life to nurturing and guiding children, both in the classroom and at home. As a beloved teacher and daycare provider for 37 years, she shaped countless young lives with patience, kindness, and a passion for learning.
Her faith was the foundation of all she did, and she lived her life as a reflection of that love and devotion. Jane was a member of Brookings Christian Church, where she enjoyed teaching Sunday school, playing piano for worship, and serving on various committees.
Jane was the heart of her family — always ready with a warm meal, a listening ear, or a spirited discussion about the latest game. A true sports fan, she cheered enthusiastically for her favorite teams and never missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren in their own athletic pursuits. She had a deep love for the Black Hills and traveling. An avid gardener, baker, reader, and the ultimate hostess.
Jane is survived by her son, Brad Van Maanen (Amy), and their children: Brandon, Jordan (Alicia), Nathan, and Megan, as well as three great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Carol (Marlin) Hintz, along with many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ken; her parents, Eugene and Ferne Kinney; her in-laws, Ed and Evelyn Van Maanen; her brothers-in-law, Roy (Doris) Van Maanen and Walter (Lois) Van Maanen; and her sister-in-law, Sylvia (Gene) Heuer.
To know Jane was to be loved by Jane. She had a heart of pure gold and gave a piece of it to every child she taught, every family member, friend, neighbor, and even strangers.
Her love was a guiding light, and though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.
