Janice Arlene (Bluhm) Ficke was born Aug. 24, 1932, in Staplehurst, to Theodore “Pat” F. and Edna E. (Nicolaus) Bluhm and passed away Dec. 25, 2024, in Seward, at the age of 92 years, 4 months, and 1 day.
Janice graduated from Seward High School in 1949. She then worked in Lincoln at St. Elizabeth Hospital as a nurse aide and later at the Elgin Watch Company. Janice then met Wesley, the love of her life. She was united in marriage to Wesley H. Ficke on Aug. 19, 1951, in Seward. To this union, three children were born, Steven Wesley, Sharon Lynette and Beth Ann. Janice and Wesley lived on several farms in their 65 years of marriage. They later retired in Seward and were members of Living Word Lutheran Church.
Janice was a lady of many talents. She worked in her garden and canned everything. She made delicious apple pies, cinnamon rolls and wonderful meals for her family. She often helped with farming by driving a truck, tractor or just cutting thistles. There was always something to do on the farm.
Janice’s greatest joy in life was her grandkids. They brought energy, smiles, and laughter all around. Whether it was reading books, making cookies, or watching movies with them, it was always a fun day at grandma’s house. Janice was also a leader in her church. She did everything from Sunday school teacher, choir, women’s bible study leader, sewing quilts, cleaning the church and with Wesley by her side, greeted everyone and made them feel very special and welcome.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Theo and Edna Bluhm; husband, Wesley Ficke; infant son, Steven Wesley; and daughter, Sharon Curtis.
She is survived by her daughter, Beth and Greg Roth, Milford; son-in-law, Tim and Kathleen Curtis, Milford; grandchildren, Jamie Roth and Kellie Roth, Evan Curtis and Carol Calderon, Cori and Karise Curtis, and Jordan and Jessica Curtis; great-grandchildren, Isaac Curtis, Tristan Curtis, William Curtis and Gwen Curtis; sister-in-law, Alice Ficke, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and great friends.
Visitation is Sunday, Dec. 29, from 1 – 7 p.m. at Zabka-Perdue Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4 – 6 p.m. The funeral service is Monday, Dec. 30, at 10:30 a.m. at Living Word Lutheran Church in Seward with interment at Faith Lutheran East Cemetery in Seward. Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designations. Arrangements by Zabka-Perdue Funeral Home.
