Janalee Gay Gansen (Fellenz), 92, died on May 8th, after her love for creating fun and laughter eventually wore out her big heart. A life-long Shawanoan, and 1956 graduate of UW Madison, Janalee ‘s impact on Shawano’s civic and cultural scene started at 7, dancing in recitals at the Crescent Theater, (now Stubborn Brothers) and included adventures such as print and live modeling (till 90), success as a painter, 60 year member of Peace Church, avid skier (85), committed golfer (91), world traveler (90), Scout Troop leader and Kindergarten/First grade teacher, both in Shawano and Keshena, and of course, a life-long Packer fan. Famous for her unmistakable roaring laugh, friendly inclusiveness of all and her signature red lipstick, Janalee’s friendships were her touchstone, as important as family, with many spanning a lifetime. Rare was the Friday night that Janalee and her “queenager” friends missed livening up the bar at a county supper club.

However, her family was her passion, and she was a devoted wife to Dr. Adrian P Gansen Jr, who pre-deceased her, and their 3 children, Patti Gansen (deceased) Dr. Adrian P Gansen III and partner Lyn Wilkinson, and Steven Schultz and wife Annette Schultz. She was also the beloved “Grandma Red Lips” to Stephanie Schultz McHugh and husband Casey McHugh, and their children, Athena and Aspen; Thomas Schultz and wife Sarah Schultz, and Scott Schultz and his wife Caty Schultz and their children Jordie and Peyton.

Janalee’s “Great Going Away Party” will be held at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano on Saturday May 30th, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm and will include a short memorial service and a “happy hour” time of sharing. In lieu of flowers the family requests you come prepared to tell a story about your friendship with Janalee. Memorial donations may be directed to ThedaCare at Home Hospice in Janalee’s name for their exemplary care or to Door2Dreams.org, an independent housing project for adults with intellectual or physical disabilities.