Janine Wagner

Janine Alice (Ploof) Wagner, age 89, of Cohasset, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at Garden Court Chateau, where she had resided since 2025.

Born on June 3, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Janine was the cherished daughter of Raymond A. and Inez E. (Dugan) Ploof. After losing her husband early in life, she raised her five children on her own—a journey that fueled her commitment to selfless service and to cultivating a warm, welcoming home for her family and community. She dedicated her career to caring for others at the Itasca County Nursing Home, working there until her retirement. Janine was defined by her profound faith in Jesus, her fierce independence, and her remarkably generous heart.

Janine found great joy in life's simple pleasures. An avid reader, she enjoyed playing games, solving puzzles, creating arts and crafts, and cooking memorable meals for her loved ones. She was also proud to be the last surviving founding member of The United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids. Janine's strong presence, positive outlook, and contagious laugh brought comfort to everyone around her; residents and staff at Garden Court Chateau frequently stopped by her room just to share in her warmth and humor.

Janine’s love lives on through her surviving family: her brother, Darrell (Judy) Ploof of Salem, OR; her children, Jeffrey (Michele) Wagner of Centennial, CO, Scott (Ronda) Wagner of Chisholm, MN, and Gayle (Greg) Carlson of Wasilla, AK; and her daughter-in-law, Cynthia Wagner Moone of St. Cloud, MN. She is also survived by her seven adored grandchildren: Corilyn, Jesse, Wyatt, Megan, Elizabeth, Spenser, and Nicole; and her two precious great-grandchildren, Tyla and Nessa.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ivan Leroy Wagner; her sons, Hugh and Bruce; her brother, Ernie Ploof; and her parents, Raymond and Inez.

A celebration of Janine’s life will be held in Grand Rapids in June 2027. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Janine’s memory to The United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids, MN (www.umcgrmn.org).

Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.