Janet Ross “Jan” (Tenhundfeld) Traeger passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, March 18, 2022. She was 76 years old.
Jan delighted in all people, especially her family. She is survived by her husband, Richard; sons, Geoffrey (Rebecca) and Christopher (Kacey); grandchildren, John Morgan (Sarah), Blake, Jackson, Caroline, Hudson, and Logan; siblings, Cathy Seward, Mark Tenhundfeld (Lynda). Al Tenhundfeld (Linda); and brothers-in-law, Joe Howard and Jack (Ann) and sister-in-law, Marilyn (Wade). She has an abundance of nieces and nephews, whom she adored greatly. Jan was predeceased by her parents, Albert Tenhundfeld and Margaret T. West, and her sister, Lynn Howard.
Born in Mobile, on October 20, 1945, Jan attended McGill Toolen High School with her siblings. In 1967, she received her B.S. in Business from Mt. Saint Joseph’s College in Cincinnati, where she also met her husband of 54 years, Richard. Together, they raised their family in New Jersey before moving back to Alabama in 2005.
Her most precious gift was her ability to make every person she met—and she never met a stranger—feel loved, valued, and heard. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she never failed to brighten people’s days with compliments, kind words and helpful gestures. She truly loved her neighbors as herself and treated everyone as the precious gift she believed them to be.
Jan relished nature and all living things, so her garden and home were always filled with fresh blooms, found treasures, and joy. She also had a strong passion for sports, especially when her sons or grandchildren were playing. She was an avid fan of Auburn, Ole Miss and the New York Yankees—or when her favorites weren’t playing, whichever team was the underdog. Mardi Gras held a special place in her heart. Her eyes would light up at the sight of parade floats and she loved dancing along to the marching bands.
We will celebrate her remarkable life at a service at Christ the King Catholic Church, 711 College Avenue in Daphne, AL at 1:00 pm on Friday, March 25, 2022. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to the Kindred at Home Foundation (Thank you, Tara and Elizabeth!) at https://kindredhospice.com/ or the Association for Frontal Temporal Degeneration at www.theaftd.org.
Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com. Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
What a beautiful and kind person my Aunt Jan was. She will always be in my prayers.
My deepest sympathies to the entire Traeger Family. Although I didn’t know your Mom, it was clear from the beautiful tribute that her warmth and fun-loving spirit touched the lives of many people. My prayer for all of you is that the memories you cherish so dearly carry you though these difficult times and inspire you to to carry-on her beautiful legacy.
Respectfully – David Lindquist (friend and colleague of Geoff’s)
Rich, I was very saddened to learn of Jan’s passing. It has been a privilege to have you in my group. I could tell from our first meeting how deeply you loved Jan and how earnestly you sought to provide her the best care. May God guide you and comfort you in the days ahead.
Love You Jan! I sure Lynn and you Mom are glad to see you. You are in my daily prayers till the Jesus decides for us to meet again.
She was everything mentioned in the obituary and more. I will miss her smile, her wit, and unconditional love. We had a long history together starting with being my Bridesmaid at my wedding, to raising our families together at Forest Lakes, to playing hours of bridge and bowling,, celebrating life’s events, sharing stories and confidences, and being that joyful person to be around..
She loved her God and He loved her. May she rest in the peace she deserves. Thank you for always being so loving and kind to my family. Love you Jan with all my heart! Ann
Sending our condolences to the entire Traeger Family. May the memories provide comfort to all of you.
Jan and her family were our neighbors in Forest Lake. She was a unique personality and I always enjoyed being in her company. We had interesting conversations. She the southern gal me the New Yorker. May she rest in peace.
My deepest sympathy to your family. May her spirit live in your hearts forever and provide you comfort during this difficult time. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
What a wonderful person Jan was . I always looked forward to her smiling face and hugs She was very special to our children and grandchildren She will be missed by all. May Jan rest in Peace .We are here for you Rich,,whenever you need anything. Jack
My aunt Jan was so sweet kind and loving. As a young girl I remember feeling such a warmth and calm in her presence. I will continue to pray for her daily and keep a special place for her in my heart.
My deepest condolences to the Traeger family. I have ver fond memories of Jan from my days growing up in Forest Lakes. My folks were good friends with Jan and Rich and I got to know the Traeger family through that relationship as well as babysitting for Geoff and Chris and working as a lifeguard at the Forest Lakes beaches. Jan was always very kind to me and had an infectious smile and a welcoming southern hospitality. I count myself blessed to have known her. My prayers go out to the entire family.
Just learned of Jan’s passing. We were neighbors and friends with our children growing up together in Forest Lakes. I have fond memories of our many walks and talks together over the years. She was the best of neighbors and friends. RIP Jan, we’ll never forget you.