Martha Jean Janes

Martha went to be with the Lord on March 3,2023 after spending several years battling Alzheimer’s. She was 81 years old.  

Martha was born May 4, 1941, to Walter and Ruth Nachtsheim in Helena MT. She joined her sister Carol and two brothers Larry and George; another brother Bruce arrived 2 years later to complete the family. Martha attended North Bryant, Lincoln, Bryant, Helena Middle School, and Graduated in 1959, from Helena High School. After graduation Martha worked in some banks in Helena for two years then moved to Los Angeles for a year and a half. She continued her banking occupation there until she returned to school at Concordia College in Portland for the next two years. After school she moved back to Helena. Upon returning she met her soon-to-be husband Bob Janes and they were married on August 21, 1965.  

Bob and Martha had two sons Phillip and Stephen, and this completed their family and gave them much joy. Phillip was found to be deaf at an early age. This enhanced the family's life with a new culture and language. We made many trips to Great Falls to the School for the Deaf and Blind, where Phillip received his education and excelled in athletics. 

After the boys were both in school, Martha went back to work, this time working for Helena School District #1, at Capital High and later at the Business Office. She enjoyed her time there, especially the staff and students.  

Martha was very caring and was always willing to help those struggling and in need of direction. Many sought her out for advice when things were tough. She always had an answer and was able to put people at ease. She helped many people through their tough times and most figured she had a direct line to the Lord.  

After Martha retired, she enjoyed many more church activities, more outdoor fun, travelling, cowboy poetry gatherings, and of course her grandsons. God has been good to Martha and her family. She has gone to a better place to rejoin those who have gone ahead.  

God has given her a great life with much joy and love from family and many wonderful friends. 

Martha was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Ruth Nachtsheim, sister Carol Durbin, brother Larry Nachtsheim, Grandson Chris Dietz. She is survived by her husband Bob Janes, sons Phillip and Stephen (Alice) Janes, brothers George (Sandra)and Bruce (Joyce) Nachtsheim. Grandsons Terris (Laura) Dietz and Justin Janes. One great grandson Christopher and one great granddaughter McKenzie along with numerous nieces and nephews.  

A special thank you to Nathan, Crystal, Jayden, Jaymie, Wilmot and Maddie and the wonderful staff at Compassus Hospice of Helena and the memory care staff at Touchmark.  

Donations in Martha's name can be made to the Montana School for the Deaf and Blind.

A memorial service will be held on April 28th at First Lutheran Church in Helena at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow in the church fellowship hall. 

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