Janice Sikkink

Janice LaVonne Holman Sikkink, 84, went to be with her Lord on May 26, 2020, at Elk Ridge Care Home in Maplewood, MN. Janice was born February 2, 1936 in Waubay, SD where she was raised by her grandparents, Augusta and Casper Holman. Janice graduated as valedictorian of her class at Waubay High School and went onto to attend Northern State Teachers College in Aberdeen, SD. She was united in marriage to Ralph Sikkink on November 12, 1955 in Waubay. They lived in Forest Center, MN for a short time before settling in Two Harbors in 1957.

Janice had various jobs throughout her life. They include working at Helgeson’s Ben Franklin, conducting the school census, providing day care to rural students, assisting special needs students on the school bus, and working in the kitchen for Sunrise Nursing Home. She obtained her Dietary Manager’s license while in her 50s to enhance her career at Sunrise. Although she worked outside the home, her main focus was her family and friends. She was always showing concern or taking care of someone.

Janice was very active in her church, serving on various committees and participating in many social functions. She loved to provide hospitality and food to others. In her later years, the hugs and love she received from her church family meant so much to her. Both Janice and Ralph loved being with younger people and their families. They often would take them out for lunch after church and became adopted grandparents to many. They were a team-always together.

Janice was predeceased by her grandparents, her birth mother and stepfather Irene & Hjalmer Edwards, and her aunts and uncle she considered to be her siblings.

She is survived by her devoted husband and caregiver, Ralph, and children Jill (Sam DeLuca) Sikkink, Jay (Gay) Sikkink, Janet (Brett) McClellan, and Jon (Heidi) Sikkink; her six granddaughters, Jessica and Malayna Sikkink; Stephanie, Savannah, and Emily McClellan; and Grace Sikkink.  She also leaves behind a special niece Cynthia Sikkink, AFS son Giorgio Cacciaguerra, extended family and countless friends.

Private graveside service will be held, with a public celebration held when circumstances allow.