Jane was born in Chicago to Florence and Harold Austgen, the fourth of seven children. After high school Jane was drawn to the School Sisters of St. Francis in Milwaukee remaining with them for 7 years, earning her nursing degree and doing hospital work. Upon leaving the School Sisters she would go on to a career in nursing that included being a midwife, home health and hospice care. She met and married Paul Allen and together they raised 2 sons, Andrew and Matthew. Eventually Jane and Paul would divorce while Jane continued in nursing. Jane would later meet Peggy who became her loving partner.

The word that best describes Jane is “nurturing.” The common threads in her life were goodness, presence, courage, acceptance and warmth.

With tenderness and loving care, she nurtured her two sons who affectionately call her “Mama Jane.” She valued being present to every moment and every person and that was apparent in hospice care and her time with others including migrants and refugees. Jane loved to read. Entering into another’s story led to a deeper understanding of her own. She encouraged every plant in her garden, looked for new ways to do things, and watched for returning birds.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents Florence and Harold, 3 brothers and a sister and grandson, Jaidan. Jane is survived by her soul-mate Peggy Liewer, her sons Andy (Deb Tesch) and Matt (Laia), her sisters Suzanne Hanley and Peg Pfau and grandchildren Alina, Thean, and Naia.

Jane’s life continues to be lived out through each of you with all the kindness and gentleness that was hers.

Memorials in remembrance of Jane Austgen will be given to the charity of Jane’s choice and can be made in care of Peggy Liewer.

NO FLOWERS, GIFTS OR TREES PLEASE