Janet Shirley Bengtson, affectionately known to family and friends as “Peaky” or “Bonnie,” age 94, of Wonewoc, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at the Sauk County Health Care Center on August 28th, 2026.
Janet was born in LaValle, Wisconsin, on July 21st, 1932, to Caroline and Edward Kannenberg. Growing up in a lively household as one of eleven children, her early years were filled with laughter, performance, and a deep love for music. Along with her siblings, she delighted locals with musical, vocal, and acrobatic performances. Janet was a remarkably gifted musician who beautifully played the violin, piano, and accordion.
She was united in marriage to Marvin Oscar Bengtson, with whom she raised three children. Janet was a woman of strong character, profound grace, and unwavering warmth. Her vibrant spirit, creative talents, and enduring strength left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She loved her family with a fierceness that left no doubt whose side she was on. She had an upfront, straightforward nature, yet she was incredibly kind, thoughtful, and generous.
Janet was preceded in death by, her husband, Marvin Oscar; grandson, Aaron Bengtson; granddaughter, Sarah Dobbs; brothers, Donald, Edward, Albert, Robert, and John Kannenberg; and sisters, Grace Cockroft, Helen Degner, and Joan Sandmire.
Janet’s legacy lives on through those who survive her, her three children and their spouses, Marvin and Barbara Bengtson, Tyson and Sherry Bengtson, and Karoline and Christopher Harris. Her sisters, Karen Mihlbauer and Sharlene “Chic” Schulz. Her seven grandchildren, Justin, Jenna & Emily Bengtson, Brianne (Mike) Rice, Alicia Steinfadt, McKenzie (Erik) Jedele, and Brett Harris. Her numerous adored great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
MEMORIAL SERVICE & LUNCHEON:
An informal luncheon to celebrate Janet’s life will be held at the Legion Hall in Wonewoc, WI, on September 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Family and friends are warmly encouraged to dress in bright colors and bring a favorite story of Janet to share.
The Picha Funeral Home in Wonewoc is assisting with arrangements.
Picha Funeral Home
