Janice Gerdes, 90, died Tuesday, August 5, 2026, at home with her family by her side.

Janice LaRue Watters was born August 8, 1935, in Anamosa, IA, the daughter of Thomas and Helen (Davis) Watters. She attended country school in Anamosa, later attending Anamosa Community Schools. She graduated from Oxford Junction High School in the Class of 1955. Janice married Garrett “Jr.” Gerdes on February 7, 1970.

She was very talented, and painting and drawing being her passions produced many beautiful works. She and Jr. loved wintering in Mesa, AZ for 16 years. Most of all she loved providing for her family and spending time with them. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion with lives on in her family.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Jr., her children Karmen (Steve) Reed, Steven (Linda) Hamilton, Dan Hamilton, Melody (John) Thompson, and Doug (Sandi) Hamilton, four step children Randy (Karla) Gerdes, Donnie (Mary) Gerdes, Dennie (Robin) Gerdes, and Shelly (Andy) Berry, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her sister Linda (Ron) Cox.

She was preceded in death by her grandson Cory John Taylor, her parents, her siblings Dolores, Tommye, Nancy, Lyle.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association to support research and care.

Private graveside services will be held at Forest Chapel Cemetery. A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Hale Supper Club, beginning at 4 pm. Help us celebrate Janice’s life so we can cherish the memories and the loving legacy she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by everyone who had the privilege to know her.

Please use the guestbook to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences with Janice's family.