Janet K. Pauquette

Janet Kay Pauquette (Carey) bloomed in her eternal garden on May 18, 2023, surrounded by her loving daughters. Janet was born to Rollin Vernell Carey and Ruth Lucile Carey (Randle) on March 21, 1949, in Clare, Michigan. She is survived by her daughters, Shawn (Edwin) Pauquette-Schalm of Clare, Carey Pauquette of Mount Pleasant, grandsons Dylan Schalm and Avery Schalm, her chosen daughter, Etta Strong, brothers Doug (Sherrie) Carey, Aaron (Laura) Carey, and Rick (Vicki) Carey and an abundance of cherished friends. Janet’s smile lit up the room. Her warmth, charisma, wit, and infectious laughter drew people to her. Many friends went to her for guidance, advice, and a listening ear. She was Homecoming Queen of Clare Public Schools in 1967, then graduated with a teaching degree from Central Michigan University. She enjoyed a successful career teaching at Evart Public Schools for over 30 years. Janet strived to find creative and effective approaches to reach her students, especially those with challenges. She was an impactful educator and well-liked by her colleagues and students. Her talent was also seen in the garden, where she created landscape art. She founded Nature’s Expressions, her perennial and herb nursery in Barryton, operating for several decades. Her green thumb, innovative mind, and artistic approach to the nursery business were enjoyed by many throughout Central Michigan, while providing her with a creative outlet and her ‘dream job’. Janet’s concern for the environment and support of environmental stewardship was passed on to her children. Raising her family with an appreciation for nature and all it has to offer. Janet’s grandsons became the center of her universe, bringing her immense joy. Both being gentle giants, they were best friends with G’ma Mott, inheriting her sarcasm, intellect, and love for nature. She inspired them to embrace adventure, care for people, and to respect the natural world. Janet’s superpower was nurturing people and plants. Her innovative style in the classroom, garden, and at home will be dearly missed. She radiated fun and a positive attitude, which will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Family and friends will gather at the Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home in Clare, Michigan on Saturday, June 10, 2023, 11 a.m. for a visitation, followed by a moment of reflection at 1 p.m. Lunch will be served following at Janet’s residence, 1612 Columbus Drive, Farwell, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy to support land conservation and public outreach regarding Michigan’s natural resources. Also, remember Janet by performing simple acts of kindness for others, especially for children and individuals in need of support. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com

Janet K. Pauquette

March 21, 1949 - May 18, 2023