FILBERT, JANET LEE, 61 , a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and faithful friend, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026, at her home, with her beloved husband and two sisters by her side. She was 61.

Janet was born on December 15, 1964, in Wichita, Kansas, to William George "Bill" and Patricia Anne "Pat" {Magathan} Stuenkel. She was raised in the Andover community, where she built a foundation of lifelong friendships, strong values, and a deep sense of determination that would guide her throughout her life. Janet graduated from Andover Public Schools in 1983 as Co-Valedictorian of her class—a reflection of both her intelligence and her dedication. She was among the very first kindergarten students in the district and part of the first graduating class to attend the new high school building, a distinction she carried with pride.

During her school years, Janet embraced life with enthusiasm and energy. She was active in volleyball, basketball, and track, and also served as a cheerleader. In the summer months, she could often be found on the softball field, enjoying both the competition and camaraderie of the game. It was during her time at JCPenney's that she met the love of her life, David Filbert—a meeting that would shape the rest of her story.

After graduation, Janet attended Wichita State University for three years before David "whisked her away" to Kansas City, beginning their life together. She later continued her education at Ottawa University, earning her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Though she completed her student teaching, Janet chose to dedicate herself fully to raising her family—a role she cherished above all others. She later opened and ran a daycare, providing care and guidance to many children with the same warmth and dedication she gave her own.

Janet and David's journey took them to several communities over the years, including Topeka, Kansas; Columbia, Missouri; and Gering, Nebraska, before eventually returning home to retire in Benton, Kansas. Wherever life led, Janet found ways to serve and connect. In Columbia and Gering, she worked in local school districts and in customer service roles at area hotels, always bringing her kindness and strong work ethic to those she encountered.

Upon returning to Benton, Janet rejoined the Andover school community, where she worked at Andover Central High School and later at the middle school as an office manager. In that role, she became a steady, caring presence for students, staff, and families alike—someone who could always be counted on for both organization and compassion.

Janet had a gift for nurturing life in all its forms. She loved to travel and found great joy in gardening, where she seemed to have a special touch—able to make any flower or plant flourish. She was an avid fan of college sports, especially KU basketball and football, but nothing brought her greater happiness than following her sons' journeys and watching her granddaughters grow. Her family was her heart and her greatest pride.

A woman of strong character and unwavering values, Janet lived with integrity, determination, and a deep loyalty to those she loved. She was strong-willed—at times even a little stubborn—but it was that same strength that carried her through life's challenges and made her such a steadfast presence for others. She believed deeply in the importance of relationships, living by her personal motto: "Once a friend, always a friend." Those who knew her understood that her friendship was genuine, enduring, and true.

Janet is survived by her loving husband, David Filbert; her sons, Andrew Filbert (Karissa) and Matthew Filbert (Sarah); her cherished granddaughters, Riley Filbert and Hailey Filbert; her brother, William Stuenkel; her sisters, Barbara Minton (Sam) and Teresa Sexson (Bill); her in-laws, Dan and Becky Filbert; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Pat Stuenkel.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m., at Church of the Magdalen, 12626 E. 21st St. N., Wichita, Kansas. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, also at Church of the Magdalen. Janet will be laid to rest at Ascension Cemetery in Wichita.

Janet's life was one of quiet strength, enduring love, and meaningful connection. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and devotion that will live on in all who were blessed to know her.