Janet Berghorst

Jan Berghorst, age 89, of Downers Grove, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born Janet Rose Drennan on June 23, 1935, in Okemos, Michigan, Jan grew up in a multi-generational musical family, a legacy that shaped her lifelong devotion to music. She earned a bachelor's degree in music education and a master's degree in choral conducting from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. There, she spent many years building her career, raising her children, and enriching the musical life of her community as a dedicated music educator, choral conductor, and church choir vocalist.

Jan was deeply committed to her faith and gave generously of her time through volunteer work and mission efforts with her churches. In 2019, she moved to Downers Grove to be closer to family. She remained active in her later years, enjoying long walks, treasured time with family and friends, and the peace of being near the water. Her heart belonged to Crystal Lake in Frankfort, Michigan - her most beloved place.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Edith Vliek; father, Harry G. "Red" Drennan; brother, Ed Drennan; and nephew, Randy Drennan.

Jan is survived by her three children: Marti (Rob), Jodi, and John (Nora); her five grandchildren: Shelby, Justin, Sawyer, Jackson, and Max; and her niece and nephews: Leslee Luettel, Brad Drennan, and Jeff Drennan.

Jan's love, laughter, and music will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

There will be a celebration of Jan's life at Stetson Chapel on Kalamazoo College's campus at 11:00 am on June 20th. Following the service, please join us for a luncheon in the Olmstead Room of Mandel Hall on Kalamazoo College's campus. All parking lots will be open, and limited street parking is available.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jan's memory to Susan G. Komen® to help advance breast cancer research and support services.