Janet Ellen Mason, a beacon of love and a pillar of her community, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 29, 2024, at the age of 89 in Rapid City, South Dakota. Born on May 26, 1935, in Wadena, Minnesota, Janet’s life was a tapestry of dedication, family, and service, woven with threads of joy and faith.
Janet was the cherished matriarch of a loving family. She is survived by her devoted son, Larry (Sandy Ridingson) Mason, and her daughter, Nancy (Tom) Hays. Her legacy of love continues through her granddaughters, Sena (Corey) Piekkola and Roxanna Mason, along with great-grandchildren, Logan, Mariah, and Hailly Barnum and Page Piekkola; nieces, and nephews who will remember her fondly. Her sister, Arlene Gustafson, will miss Janet’s warmth and guidance. Janet was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Mason, her brother, Loren Jacobson, and two sisters, Eunice Anderson and Genevive Nickerson. Her parents, Martin and Gracie Wanless Jacobson, welcomed Janet into the world and taught her the values she carried throughout her life.
A proud graduate of Deadwood High School in Deadwood, South Dakota, Janet’s intellect and work ethic were evident early on. Her career was marked by roles that required precision and trustworthiness. She worked at Montgomery Wards, served her community as a bank teller, was a trusted employee as the Deadwood City Auditor and later, managed accounts with care as a bookkeeper for H & R Block in Lead, South Dakota. Janet’s colleagues and clients respected her for her diligence and integrity. Janet’s interests were as rich and varied as her character. She had a passion for crocheting and knitting, creating countless pieces that warmed the hearts and homes of those she loved. An avid reader, she could often be found with a book in hand, lost in its pages.
Janet was also a formidable opponent in card games and cherished the camaraderie and laughter shared around games of all sorts.
Those who knew Janet would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and thoughtful. Her presence brought comfort and her actions reflected the depth of her caring spirit.
Janet’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. It guided her through times of joy and sorrow, and she shared it generously, offering words of encouragement and prayers for anyone in need. Her faith-filled example and thoughtful nature inspired all who knew her to live with compassion and grace.
As we bid farewell to Janet Ellen Mason, we celebrate a life richly lived and deeply felt. Her love and lessons remain as gifts to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Janet’s spirit, characterized by unwavering love and thoughtful gestures, will continue to shine in the memories of her family and friends. Though she has left this earthly realm, her legacy of love and faith will endure forever.
Memorial services will be held 11:00 AM Friday, January 3, 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church in Deadwood, with Reverend Richard Hinckley officiating. Inurnment will follow at 1:00 PM at Oakridge Cemetery in Deadwood.
