Janette Ilene Kautman

Janette Ilene Kautman (Boiler) was born in Marquette MI on September 30th, 1961 to Barbara and Edward Boiler She grew up in Linden, MI where she met the love of her life, her soul mate, and husband of 40 years, Dan Kautman. Jan’s love for her children, her husband, and the dozens of artists she supported whole-heartedly was unparalleled. Jan and Dan became parents August 13, 1986 with the birth of their son, James, and years later celebrated the birth of their second son, Robert, July 15, 1989. Jan was a devoted mother who loved her boys fiercely. She instilled in her sons a strong sense of open-mindedness, kindness, and an appreciation of the art of a well-reasoned debate. She was so successful, in fact, that she eventually found herself losing most arguments to her “mini-me’s,” a reality that she could not have been prouder of. In her retirement from banking and retail, Jan turned her attention to supporting the young artists in the Michigan music scene. Jan was a true lover of life; she and Dan were known to roll up on their bicycles to a local concert, camp for the weekend at a local festival, or road trip across several states, (stopping at all the antique stores along the way), to show up in support of the mitten artists that loved them in return. Jan was a giver, always anticipating the needs of those around her and finding ways to care for them. From the iconic Grumpy Cat compass that still hangs in The Accidentals tour van reminding them they have a home, to the tiny dolls she crocheted for her friend’s niece, Jan made sure that everyone in her sphere felt loved and cared for. Jan was one of those people that never had a bad day. Even at the challenges that seemed insurmountable, she’d just shake her head and say, don’t worry, we’ll get through it. Her mischievous smile lit up every room. Whether she was planning a surprise, listening to her many favorite bands, or making dinner for her family, her quick wit and easy laughter filled the space. Jan will never be forgotten but forever remembered and missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Jan is survived in life by her husband, Dan, her sons Robert and James, her sister Pam Boiler (Long) and her husband Baron, her brother-in-law Frank and sisters-in-law Linda, Jean and Luella, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother and father. A celebration of Jan’s life will be held in the spring, date and time to be announced. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Janette Ilene Kautman

September 30, 1961 - December 2, 2021