Janette E. Alderson

If you were lucky enough to know Janette Alderson, you knew three things: she adored her family, she really loved the Denver Broncos, and she had a quiet, unshakable strength that made the world feel safer just by having her in it.

Born March 20, 1944, Janette was the heart and backbone of a family that spans generations—wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and the proud creator of the world's most lovingly matched plastic canvas crafts (always in your favorite color, of course). She was married to the love of her life, Robert, for over 60 years—an achievement in love, patience, and enduring his legendary dad jokes with more grace than anyone thought humanly possible.

As a young woman, Janette found joy in country music (Dwight Yoakam held a special spot in her playlist), stacks of books, and cheering—sometimes loudly—for her Broncos. She passed on more than just her talents and passions to her four children; she gave them her steadfast kindness, her fierce loyalty, and a tendency to burst into song on birthdays (yes, even on voicemail, and yes, on speakerphone).

Her character was quiet but commanding. She didn’t need to raise her voice to lead—Janette led with compassion, with presence, and with the uncanny ability to listen so well. She offered advice with warmth, lent her shoulder without hesitation, and loved her people with a gentleness that could move mountains.

Janette was endlessly proud of her family and made sure everyone knew it—bragging was her love language. She leaves behind her husband Robert, her children Nancy, Robert III, Amber, and Libby, their spouses, eight grandchildren, and soon-to-be eleven great-grandchildren who will grow up on stories of her unconditional love, legendary birthday calls, and unshakable loyalty to her team.

She is reunited now with her parents, her brother and sister, and hopefully chatting up the angels about the next Broncos season.

Oh—and Libby? If the security cameras at Mile High Stadium catch a woman scattering ashes with purpose and passion…just know she’s simply fulfilling one of Mom’s final wishes. No bail money needed. Just a good lawyer and maybe a Broncos win that week.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Janette’s memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause close to her heart. A memorial celebration will be held at a future date.