Janice Ries, 73

1951 – 2024

 

CRESCO - Janice Ries, 73, of Cresco, IA, passed away on December 15, 2024, in Ankeny, IA, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born Janice Marie Allen near Salem, Lee County, AL, she was the daughter of Mary Lee and Milford Lee Allen. The second youngest in her family, and a dedicated student, Janice graduated salutatorian from Smith Station High School and became the first in her family to attend college, earning her degree from Auburn University. A proud alumna, she enthusiastically cheered "War Eagle!” celebrating with fellow fans or playfully teasing SEC rivals.

In 1979, Janice visited family in Iowa, fell in love with the area, and settled in Cresco near her sister Yvonne, brother-in-law Tim, and nieces April and Allison Smith. She began working at Donaldson Company, where she met her husband, Mike Ries. Together, they built a life and were blessed with a daughter, Emily. Janice’s career included roles as a teacher and social worker before spending over 20 years at Fareway in Cresco. A devoted member of Notre Dame Catholic Parish, she was active in women’s study group, volunteering at Notre Dame Elementary, and contributing to church dinners and parish events.

Janice was a voracious reader and avid bowler who relished the camaraderie of her weekly league and traveling to tournaments across the Midwest with her close-knit team. She embraced her family’s motto, “We’ve driven further for less,” and eagerly sought out new experiences, both big and small. Her travels included a memorable trip to England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as a breathtaking excursion to Montana, Utah, and Wyoming with Tim, Yvonne, and April. Janice and her family also embarked on many mini-trips throughout Iowa and the Midwest, proving that meaningful adventures can be found close to home. Whether spontaneously driving from Northern Minnesota to Canada or attending a wedding in sunny Southern California, she was always ready to explore. From the coast of Maine, NYC, and Washington, DC, to the Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach, Florida, and trips throughout Virginia, North, and South Carolina, her travels with family were filled with laughter and joy. Another highlight was a trip to Hawaii, where Emily convinced Mike to tour Oahu in a bright red convertible, and Janice arranged island- hopping to see volcanoes and black-sand beaches on the Big Island.

A passionate Auburn fan, Janice traveled to many games including the NCAA National Championship in Pasadena, Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Outback Bowl in Tampa, and SEC basketball championships in Atlanta. She voyaged with the “War Eagle Travelers,” exploring the Mediterranean with sister and fellow alumna Yvonne; and ventured to South America and Antarctica with son-in-law, Patrick, creating unforgettable memories navigating icebergs, landing on frozen shores, and standing among playful penguins in their natural habitat. These remarkable journeys reflected her audacious spirit and deep love for life.

Though she loved traveling, volunteering, and bowling, Janice’s greatest joy was being a grandparent. Affectionately known as “Nana,” she treasured every moment with grandson, Carter. After surviving a heart attack before his birth in 2010, she retired and moved to Virginia Beach to support daughter, Emily, while Patrick, served in the U.S. Navy. Mike, “Pop,” joined her after retiring from Donaldsons, and they devoted themselves to showering Carter with love, attending special events and field trips, volunteering at and picking him up from school, and sneaking in milkshakes and treats before dinner.

In 2021, Janice and Mike returned to Cresco after Patrick’s retirement from the Navy. Shortly after, Janice was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer, and over the next 39 months, fought with remarkable courage and determination, enduring numerous rounds of chemotherapy, participating in drug and immunotherapy trials, undergoing major surgeries, and facing extended hospital stays. Despite immense challenges, Janice’s unwavering positivity and indomitable spirit were inspiring – her strength and resilience a testament to her character.

Janice is survived by Mike, her devoted husband of 44 years; daughter Emily (Patrick) Assmus, and cherished grandson Carter Assmus of Ankeny, IA; best friend and beloved sister Yvonne (Tim) Smith, and niece April Eaton (great nephews Gabriel and Kaleb), of Rock Hill, SC; brothers- and sisters-in-laws Cathy Ries of Elma, IA; Elaine (Chuck) Laures of Osage, IA; Marilyn (Gary) Schaudenecker of Alta Vista, IA; Eddie Ries of Spring Valley, MN; Gary (Mary Jo) Ries of Elma, IA; and William Letlow of Opelika, AL; as well as her many adored nieces and nephews. She is also deeply missed by her spoiled schnauzer grandpuppies, Sir Winston Archibald Niblet and Baron Rolph Eugene von Pupperton, who took their role of comforting her very seriously until the very end.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents Mary Lee and Milford Lee Allen; in-laws Ralph and Mary Ries of Elma, IA; niece Allison Smith of Cresco, IA; sister Peggy Allen (in infancy); sister Patsy (Bill) Tate and niece Jeanie Hanson of Phenix City, AL; brother Leroy Allen, and sisters Judy Letlow and Gail (Delmar) Martin, and nephew Charles Martin of Opelika, AL; brother-in-law John Ries of Elma, IA; sister-in-law Jean Ries of Spring Valley, MN; and niece Deb Ries of Rochester, MN.

A funeral and celebration of life will be held later in 2025. Charitable donations can be made to the Howard Cancer Association (HoCA) (PO Box 192; Cresco, IA 52136) or the Gundersen Medical Foundation (1900 South Avenue; La Crosse, WI 54601).