Janis died peacefully surrounded by her family on May 20, 2016, at the age of 87. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bill Falkenberg, her daughter, Ruth Falkenberg (Larry Nelson), her grandson, Chad Nelson, and two daughters-in-spirit, Anne Mansfield and Kathleen McCarthy. Her sons, Chris and Charles, and her granddaughters, Zoe and Dana did not survive her. At her request, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Colorado Historical Foundation for the Hart Library, or to a charity of your choice.