Jewell Ann (Jan) Knickerbocker, 81, died peacefully on October 21, 2012 at her home in Portage. Devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she was born on September 17, 1931 in Mason City, Iowa to Rev. Jewel and Clara Pickett. She spent much of her early years in Keokuk, Iowa. Her family moved to Hannibal Missouri where she finished her last 2 years of high school. Soon after Jan graduated, Rev. Pickett relocated his family to Stevens Point, Wisconsin to pastor a church. Jan had just begun her college education when she met, in her words, her "real love", Nick (William) Knickerbocker. The couple later married. When he graduated, they moved to Portage and began to raise their family. They relocated to Arlington, and then Poynette as Nick's career in education grew. In 1967, Jan and the family moved to Bida, Nigeria (Africa) for 2 years. Upon returning to the U.S., they made their home in Austin, Minnesota, then headed oversees again, this time to Kwajalein Island in the South Pacific. While there Jan was an office manager for the Facilities Operation Maintenance Department of the military base. She also served as president of the United Women's Club. In 1985, Jan and her husband's final move together was back to Wisconsin where they settled in Montello. Jan spent a number of years as the office manager and licensed real estate agent for Saddle Ridge near Portage. After Nick passed away in 2003, Jan remained in Montello until 2010 when she moved back to Portage. In her leisure time, she enjoyed reading, playing golf, watching the Packers and Badgers play football, traveling, home decorating, serving others and the Lord, and most importantly spending time with family and friends. Jan is survived by her sons Bill (Judy) Knickerbocker of Chetek, Wisconsin, John (Deb) Knickerbocker of Shawano, Wisconsin, and James (Debra) Knickerbocker of Montello, Wisconsin, daughter Jane (Rob) Burnette of Lakeland, Florida, 11 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Knickerbocker, her parents, brothers Phil and Carlton, and sister Carolyn. A visitation will be held between 2pm and 3pm on Saturday, October 27 at the Picha Funeral Home, Portage. At Jan's request, there will be a private service a 3pm. In lieu of flowers Jan wished that donations be made to favorite charities in her name. Service Details. Visitation
Picha Funeral Home
302 East Conant St.
Portage, WI
Saturday, October 27, 2012 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Map to Visitation Place Service
Picha Funeral Home
302 East Conant St.
Portage, WI
Saturday, October 27, 2012 3:00 PM
Map to Service Place
Memorial Contributions May be made to favorite charities in Jan's name.
