Janet V. Nelson

Janet Nelson, 80, lived a life filled with joy, love, and an endless supply of her favorite potato chips. Born on October 6, 1942 in the Town of Butternuts, Janet was the youngest daughter of Abram and Luella (Filer) VanVranken.

Growing up on the family dairy farm, Janet developed an affection for animals of all kinds. She had a cow named after herself - the legendary 'Janet Cow', along with a buckskin horse named Pal. She actively participated in many 4-H events and showed her animals at the county fair. While she was never a big fan of school, she loved playing her flute in band class and acted as a drum majorette and baton twirler for the school marching band.

After high school, Jan attended a typing school where she learned much about how to efficiently run an office. She used that knowledge at various jobs over the years, including at the Holstein Association and Babcock Poultry. She then worked at Gilbert Fuel as the Office Manager for twenty years before retiring to travel and spend time with family and friends. She was an adventurous traveler who had seen many parts of the world, including the West Coast, Alaska, and Europe. However, she always preferred to be home with her family and animals. She enjoyed reading, shopping, and visiting with those she loved.

Janet's generosity knew no bounds. She was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church of Gilbertsville and volunteered with the Gilbertsville Fire Department Women's Auxiliary. She was always finding ways to help others, often working anonymously to provide resources for those in need. Janet had a special love for animals, and rescued many strays in her neighborhood. Throughout the years, you never knew what you might find at her house - cats, dogs, birds, and even injured wildlife.

In her later years, Janet faced the challenges of cancer and advanced dementia, but her spirit never wavered. She always had a smile and a twinkle in her eye, even when she no longer recognized those around her. Janet passed away on April 6th, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and faith.

Janet is survived by her daughters, Susan (Tony Watling) Reisch and Tamara (Tony) Caputo; her former husband, Paul Nelson; her sister, Mary Lou (Ken) Hammond, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by both of her parents.

A celebration honoring Janet’s life will be held on Saturday, May 6th at 12:30pm at the family park at 401 Guy Beardsley Road in Otego, NY. There will be a potluck meal before the service. All are welcome to join Janet’s family as we remember her and celebrate a life well lived. Please bring a favorite memory of Jan and some food to share!

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Janet’s memory to the Super Heroes Humane Society in Oneonta, NY (www.superheroeshs.org).

Janet's family and friends will always remember her for her contagious laughter, her love of life, and her kind and generous heart. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bookhoutfh.com for the Nelson family.