Janice P Elbling

Janice Elbling September 11, 1951 – July 26, 2026

Janice "Jan" Elbling was born in Norfolk, Nebraska, to Paul and Clara Kesting. She spent her early childhood there before the family moved to Omaha. As the youngest of five children, Jan grew up surrounded by family and carried that love of togetherness throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Clara Kesting; her brothers, Dale (Jean), Duane (Bev), Jerry (Nadine), and Jack Kesting. She is lovingly survived by her husband of 56 years, Jim; her sister-in-law, Glenda; many nieces and nephews; countless dear friends; and wonderful neighbors who became like family.

Jan attended South High School, where she met the love of her life, Jim. They graduated together in 1969 and married the following year, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned 56 years. Throughout their marriage, one lyric from their special song always seemed to capture the way Jim felt about Jan: "...the best damn woman that I've ever seen." Together they built a life centered on love, laughter, unwavering friendship, and a home whose doors were always open to family, friends, and anyone who needed a place to belong.

Jan never met a stranger. She loved to laugh, visit, and bring people together. Their home was often filled with family and friends for dinner parties, baby showers, anniversary celebrations, and even a Celebration of Life. Hospitality came naturally to Jan. She was always thinking of others, sending welcome baskets, flowers, and plants to brighten someone's day. She also had a habit of volunteering Jim's help—whether he knew about it or not—a gesture that became one of her many endearing trademarks.

Her love for dogs was every bit as strong as her love for people. Showing dogs took Jan across the country and brought her tremendous pride and joy. She devoted herself to breeding, raising, and exhibiting Afghan Hounds and Keeshonds, earning the respect and admiration of many in the dog show community. She was actively involved with the American Kennel Club, helping chair many National and Specialty shows. She used her creativity and eye for detail to select and display beautiful trophies for exhibitors.

Professionally, Jan worked at Lozier Corporation before combining her organizational talents and passion for the dog show world as Executive Administrator for Foy Trent Dog Shows. Earlier in her career, she even gave tours aboard the USS Hazard minesweeper—a role her friends loved to joke was perfect for her because she never had to duck through the ship's low doorways.

Life with Jim was filled with simple joys. They loved dining out with friends and family, going to the movies, and cheering on the Omaha Lancers hockey team. Their generosity extended beyond the stands as they served for several years as host parents to Lancers players, welcoming young athletes into their home and giving them a place where they felt cared for while they were far from their own families.

Jan's generous heart, warm smile, unwavering kindness, and quick wit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved, and she leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories that will continue to bring comfort and smiles for years to come. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, the friendships she nurtured, the family she loved so dearly, and the dogs that brought her endless joy. As we say farewell for now, may we remember Jan not with sadness alone, but with gratitude for the love she shared so freely and the beautiful example she set. Rest peacefully, Jan. You will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

Private services will be held at a date to be determined.