Janice E. Couch

Janice E. “Jan” Couch, 89, of Rockford, IL, passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at River Bluff Nursing Home. She was born on Tuesday, February 2nd, 1937, in Seward, IL, the daughter of Gerald and Gertrude (Wiler) Baker. Jan married Jerry G. Couch, on February 12, 1955, in Rockford. She was formerly employed as a school bus driver for the Rockford School District 205 for most of her life. Jan was then employed at Septran until she retired. She attended United Methodist Church in New Milford, IL, for 50 years. Jan enjoyed playing games with family, cards with friends, doing puzzles, traveling, and attending her grandchildren’s sporting events as often as possible where she was their biggest cheerleader. Christmas was Jan’s favorite holiday, giving to her family, cooking, and making Christmas cookies. Christmas was the holiday she looked forward to most every year. Survivors include her children, Kenneth (Beth) Couch, and Dawn (Peter) Gwizdala; grandchildren, Kayla (Brad) Watson, Lindsey (Dave) LaFond, Kassie Goff, Jason Goff, Rachel Couch, Madeleine Couch, Abbey Couch, and Lydia Couch; great-grandchildren, Dahlia Goff, Barrett LaFond, Ellysen LaFond, and Liam Watson; brother, James (Nancy) Baker; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Jerry; son, Brian; sisters, Sharon Miller, and Gail Hodge; and brother, Frances Baker. Special thanks to River Bluff, Dove Unit, for their excellent care and compassion and to the OSF Hospice staff for their continued care and comfort to Jan and her family.

Memorial service at 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2026, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with memorial visitation from 10 a.m. to service time. Cremation rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.