Janet Carlson Obituary

Janet Kay Carlson, 71, of South Haven, Mich. went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, surrounded by her family.

She was born in South Haven on Sept. 24, 1954, to the late Richard "Bud" and Frances (Polansky) Otto.

Jan married Larry Allen Carlson in South Haven on Sept. 10, 1985. He preceded her in death in 2016.

She is survived by three children – Michael (Jennifer) Strebeck, Matthew "Bo" (Carly Campbell) Strebeck, and Christyn Carlson; along with nine grandchildren – Matthew, Grace, Brody, Memphis, Giana, Everly, Gavin, Wyatt, and Piper. Also surviving is a sister, Charlan Otto.

She was preceded in death by two brothers; Donald and Richard "Dick" Otto.

Prior to retiring, Jan had worked in information technology for South Haven Public Schools and the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, after which she retired in full from Taylor Controls last year.

She was a very active member of VFW Post 667, volunteering her time for meals and events, as well as serving in multiple positions within the post auxiliary.

She was deeply involved in her kids' sports activities, including running the youth bowling league at Lakeside Lanes for more than ten years and serving as a member of the South Haven Rams boosters during their high school years.

She enjoyed gardening and had a deep love of nature, especially the simple joy of feeding the birds and squirrels that visited her yard.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, at Filbrandt Chapel. An hour of visitation will take place prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. Pastor Larry Phillips of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, will be officiating the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jan's memory to Al-Van Humane Society as she was a perpetual rescuer of dogs and loved them very much.

Those wishing to share a memory of Jan online may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. 269-637-0333.