In Memory of Janice K. Beahler

Janice K. Beahler, age 78, of Holstein, Iowa (formerly of Fort Dodge, Iowa) passed away on Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 13, 2022, at the Dolliver Memorial State Park South Lodge in Lehigh, Iowa.

The Christensen - Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove, Iowa, is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be sent online to www.christensenvanhouten.com

Janice Kay Beahler, the daughter of Cleio and Eva (Slawson) Stringer, was born on February 5, 1944, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Janice grew up in Kalo, Iowa and attended school in the Otho Community School District through 11^th grade. Due to the school district consolidation her senior year, she attended Fort Dodge High School graduating with the class of 1961.

On May 20, 1965, Janice was united in marriage to Dale Beahler. They were blessed with four children: Darren Ray, Blake Allan, Leatha Kay and Bradley Fairl. The family made their home in the Fort Dodge area where Janice enjoyed being a homemaker and raising her children. Janice and Dale later parted ways but rejoined in marriage later in life.

Once her children were older, Janice attended Iowa Central Community College to obtain her CDL. She then began working as an over-the-road truck driver. Later Janice was employed for a number of years as a school bus driver for the Fort Dodge CSD until her retirement. In 2021 Janice relocated to the Good Samaritan Society in Holstein, Iowa, to be closer to her daughter. 

Janice found peace in nature. She treasured time spent outdoors whether it was gardening, rock hunting, exploring nature or understanding indigenous and pioneering ways. She also enjoyed reading her outdoor living and nature magazines. Janice could be found antiquing, crocheting, and treasuring time spent with her family. She was a faithful member of the Lehigh Christian Church.

Left to cherish her memory include her children Darren (Lynn) Beahler of West Allis, WI, Blake (Sara) Beahler of Garretson, SD, Leatha Beahler of Galva, IA and Bradley (Jennifer) Beahler of Fort Dodge, IA; 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; brother Marvin “Pete” Stringer of Otho, IA; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by a son in infancy Blaine Alan Pratt; her parents Cleio and Eva Stringer; husband Dale Beahler; brother Gale Stringer; sister Beverly Mernka and brother-in-law James Mernka; and sister-in-law Mary Jane Stringer.