Barb Janeshek

Barb Janeshek of Port Washington passed away at Lawlis Family Hospice in Mequon on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023, while surrounded by her loving family. She was 82 years old.

Born in Port Washington on Aug. 11, 1941, the daughter of Alfred and Agnes (nee Lorge) Zausch, Barbara lived a life full of warmth, kindness and joy. She touched the hearts of all who knew her and leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Barb attended local schools and graduated from Port Washington High School with the Class of 1959 before going on to beauty school in Milwaukee.

On Nov. 16, 1963, she was united in marriage with Stanley “Mutz” Janeshek Jr.

The couple settled in Port and began their family. Shortly after, Barb opened BJ’s Beauty Salon in their home. Many, if not most, of her clients became extended family of some sort.

Mutz preceded Barb in death in 2021.

Barb was a member of St. John XXIII Catholic Parish. She actively participated in the community and was known for her kind-hearted nature and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Known for her vibrant spirit, Barb was an active member of the Red Hat Society and relished being a part of the floats for the annual Fish Day parades. Many deep and lasting friendships were formed. She had an infectious smile that could light up any room and brought joy to all who had the privilege of sharing moments with her.

Grandma Barb (aka Gram or Granny) always held a special place in her life for all her grandkids. She often attended their football, basketball, hockey and baseball games to cheer them on. And her candy drawer was always full.

Barb’s love for spreading joy extended beyond her social circles. Every year she could be found donning an Easter Bunny suit during the holidays, bringing happiness and laughter to children and adults alike with the 90 dozen onion skin dyed eggs she would make.

Additionally, she was renowned for her thousands of homemade Christmas cookies and candies that she and Mutz hand-delivered to customers and friends, and Barb never failed to include the workers at her favorite restaurants and stores.

A devoted fan of the Milwaukee Brewers, Barb never missed a game and could sometimes be spotted with her trusty transistor radio to her ear, always rooting for her beloved team. She also enjoyed watching the Packers. Her love of sports extended to bowling, and she was a faithful league bowler for more than 36 years.

Those left to cherish her memories include her daughter Monica (John Mikyska) Jansen of Grafton, son William (Rebecca) Janeshek of Belgium, grandchildren Zach (Kaylee), Daniel (Hannah), Ben (Heather), Trevor, Dylan, Tyler (Kennedy), Kyle, Nick and Jessica and great-grandchildren Wrenlee, Jaxon and Brooks.

She is further survived by her sister Marge (the late Rick) Bichler, brother-in-law Frank Janeshek, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Stanley “Mutz” Janeshek Jr., sisters Mary Jane and Ethel and brothers Bill, Bob and Jimmy.

A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Eernisse Funeral Home in Port Washington, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington. Father Patrick Wendt will preside.

The family will receive guests at the funeral home on Tuesday, Oct. 3, from 2 to 5 p.m.

Memorials, if desired, are suggested in Barb’s name to Lawlis Family Hospice.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.