Janet L. Vilhauer

Janet Lee Vilhauer, 70, of Aberdeen, SD, died Thursday, June 9, at Prairie Heights Healthcare, Aberdeen, with Penny by her side.

Janet Lee Vilhauer was born June 4, 1952, to Robert and Stella (Job) Vilhauer at the hospital in Fort Riley, KS. She attended school in Aberdeen, then the family relocated to Miller, SD. They returned to Aberdeen where she graduated from Aberdeen Central High School.

She went on to Northern State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in music education and a minor in theater. While attending NSU and after graduating, she directed, was stage manager, ran lights, played piano and designed costumes for the theater department. She was incredibly talented, being able to sing and play many instruments.

Janet was a member of Plymouth Congregational UCC in Aberdeen. She was an admitting representative at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital before her illness. Janet was also a member of the Humane Society. She was caring and had a generous heart. She adored animals, especially her dog Dolly. Dolly and music held a special place in her heart. Janet spent her free time singing or playing piano for the theatre department at NSU, the Aberdeen Community Theatre, and many weddings and other functions. The Aberdeen Community Theater had an award named after Janet that they gave to deserving members called the Tenured Techie Award. Music truly was her life and brought her great joy.

Grateful for having shared Janet’s life are her brother, Randy Vilhauer, a nephew, and the Keller family.

Preceding Janet in death are her parents and grandparents.