Janice Theresia (Voepel) Unger died on Friday, May 26, 2023. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister aunt, nurse, administrator, and friend who will long be remembered for her generous heart, compassion and care for her nursing home residents, and her unending supply of $2 bills.
Janice was the oldest child born to Johnny and Cordy (Meinz) Voepel on July 21, 1941, in Altenburg. She was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Altenburg. She was a longtime, faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Jackson.
She attended 1st-8th grade at Trinity Lutheran School in Altenburg and then graduated from Perryville High School in 1959. Following high school, Janice attended Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing in St. Louis and graduated in 1962. Later, she went on to earn her B.S. in Nursing and her M.S. in Administration from Southeast Missouri State University.
On February 10, 1962, Janice married Bill Unger at Trinity Lutheran Church in Altenburg. They were blessed with 61 years together. They have three sons, her pride and joy - Mark, Michael, and Matthew Unger.
In her nursing career she worked at both St. Francis and Southeast Hospital. She was best known for her 26-year tenure as the administrator of the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau. She was especially proud of her work there. Janice had a special place in her heart for the elderly and worked diligently to provide compassionate, Christian care for her patients and their families. She took great pride in knowing the name of each resident in her care. In addition, under her leadership, the Lutheran Home established the first memory care unit in Southeast Missouri. She was later instrumental in establishing the Villas of Jackson.
Janice served in many leadership positions including the Missouri State Board of Nursing Home Administrators and the Jackson Board of Planning and Zoning. She was also active in numerous health-related organizations. She was the recipient of many awards, most notably for her expertise in the area of geriatric care.
Janice lived life unapologetically and to the fullest. She was always busy whether it was work, travel, golf, adding to her collections, or playing Bridge with her dear friends. Although she was busy, she always knew what was going on, what needed to be done, and who needed her help. Janice was wonderful about reaching out just to check in or to give an encouraging word.