Janine Schiller, 89, of Elkader, Iowa died Friday, April 12, 2019 at University of Iowa Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa. She was born September 26, 1929 to Ernest Roy and Mae (Gifford) Smith. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Macalester College in 1951. While at Macalester she met Charles Schiller and on June 27th, 1956 they were married in Tokyo, Japan with their dear friend Raymond Stassen as Best Man. Upon returning to the States, Janine began a long career teaching English in the public schools and also received a Masters degree in English Literature. In 1967 Janine and Charles’ only child, Leslie Ann was born.
Janine had a life-long love of travel – visiting many countries in Europe, as well as China and Japan. She enjoyed theater in all forms, and almost never missed a production of the Opera House Players. She was engaged and active in world events and in politics, serving for a time as President of Main Street Elkader. She was a member of PEO and enjoyed attending meetings and sharing time with members. The last years of her life were spent living with her family and enjoying time with her grandchildren.
Janine is survived by her daughter Leslie, son-in-law Adam and grandchildren Charlotte, Gifford, Dereje, Loie and Ada, lifelong friend Raymond, and extended Gifford family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles and dear friend Julian Carr.
There are no funeral services planned at this time.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Elkader, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.