Janis “Jan” Elaine Mahalek was born on Oct. 21, 1937, to John and Emma (Dlouhy) Pekarek in Howells.
She attended Howells High School, graduating in 1955. She then attended College of Saint Mary, Omaha, earning her teaching degree. On Oct. 28, 1959, Jan was united in marriage to Bert Mahalek in Howells. She worked for the Seward School System for 20+ years. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, playing bridge, bowling and crocheting. She was a fan of Husker volleyball and Husker women's basketball. Jan passed away Oct. 6, 2025, in Seward, at the age of 87.
She is survived by her children, Russ (Rhonda) Mahalek of Omaha, Todd (Marty) Mahalek of Garland, and Cindy (Jay) Pieper of Lincoln; grandchildren, Wesley Wills, Chelsi (Matt) Ridge, Logan (Michaela) Mahalek, Mason Mahalek (fiancée, Megan Garbe), Thomas Pieper, Mollie (Ethan) Jasinske and Jackson Pieper; great-grandchildren, Teigan, Eli and Theron Ridge and Amelia Mahalek. Jan was preceded in death by her parents, John and Emma Pekarek; husband, Bert Mahalek; brother, Jack Pekarek; and sister, Geri Stewart.
A gathering of family and friends will be Sunday, Oct. 12, from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, Oct. 13, at 10:30 a.m. at the church with committal at the Seward Cemetery.
Arrangements by Volzke Funeral Home.
