Janet Kathleen Aves died in her home, Memory Haven at Doves Estates, on Monday, Dec 18, 2023, in the loving presence of her children and grandchildren. Jan was born on May 23, 1945, in Wichita as Janet Kathleen Tigner, to parents Raymond and Marion.

A lifelong educator focusing on special education, she dedicated her passion for education to the most in need of her focus and patience, while making sure each child in her charge received every advantage. She continued this calling even into much of her assisted/memory care days, as she sought to find those feeling excluded and find ways for them to feel included and understood. Jan received her bachelor's degree from Fort Hays State University and later her master's degree from Wichita State while working as an educator and being a farmer’s wife.

In 1976, Jan married Don Aves. She immediately and comfortably transitioned from single mom city girl to farmer's wife. She no doubt knew that her children would thrive in their new family unit that included Don’s two children. For 45 years, until Don’s death in 2021, they shared their lives, dedicated to family and the business of farming. Following Don’s passing, Jan began to suffer with memory issues that quickly required assisted living. Her children made sure she received only the best care until the end. Her last days were in the care of Memory Haven in Goddard, where she had the very best of care and the most loving of angels looking after her. She was treated like a queen to the end.

Jan is survived by her son, Shannon Hopkins (Tiffany), and her two daughters, Michelle Bishop and Mia Hopkins; her seven grandchildren, Joshuah, Shelby, Corey, Brian, Kirsten, Hazel and Brodie; as well as five great-grandchildren, Isabella, Paisley, Kash, Rory and Everly.

Her granddaughter, Mackenzie 'Mickey' Hopkins, preceded her in death.

Each one knew her, lovingly, as “Gma Tractor.”

A service for Jan will be held on Friday, Dec. 29, at Wulf-Ast Chapel at 911 Biermann, Garden Plain, at 10 a.m., with interment following at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery, at 101 N. Main Street in Garden Plain.