Janet E Kerrigan

I am Janet (Jan) Kerrigan and I was born during a snowstorm on December 15, 1935, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Viola and Lyle Ealy. I passed away on July 26, 2024 at The Bridges of Ankeny, Ankeny, Ia. I was greeted in heaven by my beloved dogs.

I was raised in Belle Plaine, Iowa a small Bohemian community where my parents owned and operated several small town bars during and after the depression. I have always been known as the “Person in charge”. A name I happily enjoyed all 88 years of my life. I graduated from Iowa Teachers College now known as University of Northern Iowa in 1958.

I married Jim Kerrigan on June 30, 1957 in Austin, Minnesota. Son Jef arrived shortly after and Jay was born 4 years later. Relocating the family many times throughout the years was necessary for Jim’s career with Gulf Oil, a global oil company. Eventually, we returned to Iowa. We built and operated the very first Burger King in Ankeny in 1980. The Boys worked alongside Jim and I for several summers at “The King”.

My passion was Bridge and my mastership of the game truly showed. I loved to shop, anywhere, anytime!! I am told my Christmas gifts were a mystery to all recipients.

I was a long time member of Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, Ankeny Country Club, Catholic Daughters, PEO and proud supporter of University of Northern Iowa.

I loved Sports, Democratic Politics, Travel and Reading.

Chocolate was my breakfast, lunch and dinner of choice.

I am survived by my son Jay (Tammy) of Ankeny, Iowa ; Grandchildren; Hallie(Ryan) Bridges of Houston Texas; Karson Kerrigan of Ankeny, Iowa, Karli Kerrigan of Grimes, Iowa. Great Grandsons Miles and Hayes Bridges of Houston, Texas. Sister in Laws: Phyl Kerrigan, of Plano Texas and Jane Vorhees, of West Des Moines. Several nieces, nephews and cousins.

I was preceded in death by my parents, Husband, infant Son, Granddaughter Gracie, and Son Jef.

Mass of a Christian burial will be at 1:30 on August 14,2024 at Our Lady Immaculate Heart Catholic Church. A rosary will be recited at 1:00 prior to services. Family will visit with friends for fellowship and desserts following mass at 2:30.

No flowers, Donations may be sent to Linkassociates.org in memory of me, Jan Kerrigan.

I loved dogs and, in my honor please give a big hug to a dog.