Janet C. Welke (nee Braun), age 81, of Manhattan formerly of Chicago, passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at Silver Cross Hospital. Survived by her loving husband of 62 years Charles W. Welke, Sr., her children Cheryl (Gary) O'Toole, Charles (Evelyn) Welke and Rose (Jeff) Beebe, her grandchildren Taren O'Toole, Kile (Laura) O'Toole, Carlie (Hugo) Pacheco, Charles (Leslie) Welke III, Jacob Welke, Kimberly (Josh) Kreml, Blaine (Caroline) Beebe and Brenna Beebe, her great grandchildren Connor, Jack, Hannah, Alaina, Allison, Ella, Violet, Charles IV, Pearl, Lillie, Knox and Lennox, her sister Merryon (Walter) Marnell, nieces, nephews, and friends. Preceded in death by her parents Walter and Clara Braun. Janet was born and raised in Chicago and was a graduate of York High School. She was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking and hosting family parties. Janet was a dedicated grandmother, attending any an all their events; traditionally, she spent every New Year's Eve with her grandchildren, memories those grandchildren will never forget. Janet will be remembered for her easy smile, gentle nature and for her endless love for her family. Private family services will be held. Inurnment will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.