Janette E. Luellen

Janette Edna Luellen

July 22, 1936 – June 10, 2025

Janette Edna Luellen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on July 22, 1936, in Fairplay, Colorado, Janette’s life was rich with love, resilience, and devotion to those around her. She lived in Colorado, Washington, Missouri, Wyoming, Texas and Nebraska, creating lasting memories wherever she went.

On November 28, 1954, she wed Kenneth Luellen and they made their home in the Louisville, NE area for the next 70 years.

Janette's career included time at Boys Town, Russell Stover, and Western Electric, but her true calling was in the kitchen. Her passion for cooking shined during her 25 years in the school kitchen at Louisville Public Schools, serving generations of children. Additionally her and her husband Kenneth owned a restaurant for a short period of time and she cooked at Platte River State Park.

Even after retirement, Janette remained deeply involved in the lives of those around her. For eight years, she joyfully volunteered at the preschool attended by some of her great-grandchildren, sharing her gentle spirit, kindness, and laughter with another generation.

Family was the heart of Janette’s world. She was the devoted wife of Kenneth Luellen, loving mother to Nada (Luellen) Bergmann and Mike Luellen (spouse Sharon (Cochran) Luellen), and proud grandmother to:

Jen (Bergmann) Lundgren (spouse Nathan; children Jackson, Maddox, Easton, and Campbell)

Pam (Bergmann) Tuller (spouse Eric; son Brendan)

Melanie (Luellen) Moore (spouse Matthew; children Luke, Lydia, Kesed, Korban, and Abigail)

Marcus Luellen (spouse Meagan (Johnson) Luellen; children Hunter, Hudson, and Emma)

Rick Bergmann (spouse Kim Pierce)

Carter Luellen

Patrick Luellen

She is also survived by her sister Sharon (Switzer) Smith, sisters-in-law: Linda Robbins and Carolyn Pulman; brothers-in-law: James and Lawrence, numerous nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of extended family and dear friends.

Janette was preceded in death by her parents Gerald and Mary Switzer; her brothers Gary Switzer and Dwayne Switzer (and spouse Diane); her sister Nada Audrey Switzer; her parents-in-law Sam and Elzada Luellen; brothers-in-law Lyle, Elton, and Eddie; as well as sisters-in-law Kathy, Hilda, Moelia, and Ilga.

Janette found joy in simple pleasures and shared experiences. She loved playing cards with family and friends and attending bluegrass music festivals. Summer vacations were spent with family at the lake. Travel ranged across the U.S. and overseas. For more than a decade, she and Kenneth embraced life as Texas snowbirds, enjoying warm winters and new friendships. At home, she delighted in gardening and canning, preserving the fruits of her labor with the same care she gave to everything she touched.

Her legacy is one of deep-rooted love, hospitality, and a life lived fully. Whether around a table, around a campfire, or on a long road trip, Janette brought people together with warmth, food, and heart.

A burial service will be held on Monday, June 16th at Omaha National Cemetery. Line-up will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Following the service, a brunch will be held at the Louisville Senior Center. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Janette’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Louisville Public Library.