Janet Kay Carlson, 71, of South Haven, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, February 13, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born in South Haven on September 24, 1954, to the late Richard “Bud” and Frances (Polansky) Otto.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Filbrandt Chapel. An hour of visitation will take place prior to the service from 10 to 11 a.m. Pastor Larry Phillips of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, South Haven, will be officiating the service.
Jan married Larry Allen Carlson in South Haven on September 10, 1985. He preceded her in death in 2016. She is survived by 3 children – Michael (Jennifer) Strebeck, Matthew “Bo” (Carly Campbell) Strebeck, and Christyn Carlson; along with 9 grandchildren – Matthew, Grace, Brody, Memphis, Giana, Everly, Gavin, Wyatt, and Piper. Also surviving is a sister, Charlan Otto. She was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Donald and Richard “Dick” Otto.
Prior to retiring, Jan had worked in information technology for South Haven Public Schools and the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, after which she retired in full from Taylor Controls last year. She was a very active member of VFW Post 667, volunteering her time for meals and events, as well as serving in multiple positions within the post auxiliary. She was deeply involved in her kids’ sports activities, including running the youth bowling league at Lakeside Lanes for more than ten years and serving as a member of the South Haven Rams boosters during their high school years. She enjoyed gardening and had a deep love of nature, especially the simple joy of feeding the birds and squirrels that visited her yard.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jan’s memory to Al-Van Humane Society as she was a perpetual rescuer of dogs and loved them very much.
Those wishing to share a memory of Jan online may do so at www.starksfamilyfh.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. 269-637-0333
Service Details
Visitation
When
February 21st, 2026 10:00am – 11:00am
Where
Filbrandt Chapel
Address
1076 S. Bailey Ave.
South Haven, MI 49090
Service
When
February 21st, 2026 11:00am
Where
Filbrandt Chapel
Address
1076 S. Bailey Ave.
South Haven , MI 49090