We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our mother and grandmother, Janis Sue Gessman (nee Kelchner).

Janis passed away on May 30, 2023 at 7:30 PM. She was born on June 9, 1929 in Akron, the daughter of the late Lloyd and Ethel (nee Reeves) Kelchner.

Janis lived most of her life in the Portage Lakes area and graduated from Coventry High School in 1947. She was a talented dancer from a young age into adulthood, performing with the Olson-Johnson Show in her adult years.

She was active in her church, Lakeview Christian Church, and volunteering at Green Good Neighbors for many years. These things brought her much joy.

Other than her parents, Janis was preceded in death by her son, Clinton William DeWitt and her husband of 50 years, Earl Gessman.

Survivors include her children, Howard DeWitt and Linda (Tom) Gregory; her step-sons, Terry Gessman and John (Honor) Gessman; her grandchildren, Joey DeWitt, Gina (Adrian) Tippens, Kathy (Bill) Calvert, Darren Gregory and Richard Gessman; and her great grandchildren, Makaylee, Lindsay and Marshall Calvert, Bridget Remenyi and Evan Tippens.

Her sister also survives, Nancy (David) Perry; and her nieces and nephews and their families.

Funeral services will be held on Janis' birthday, Friday, June 9, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 North Canton Road, Akron, Ohio, 44305, where Pastor Jim Gindlesberger will celebrate Janis' life.

Family and friends may visit at the funeral home on Friday from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM.

Janis will be buried next to her husband, privately, on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Lakewood Cemetery, Akron, Ohio.

Lord keep her in your loving care until we reunite in Heaven.