Obituary of Janet L. Hahn

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, Janet Leonette Eurich, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Hoyt Nursing and Rehab Centre, surrounded by her family. She was 88 years old.

Janet would want to be remembered most as a true “people person.” She cherished the many connections she made throughout her life and long career in nursing, each one, whether brief or lasting, brought her joy and meaning. Her warmth, kindness, and compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Born on June 29, 1937, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Raymond and Hilda (Dunn) Eurich, Janet graduated from Arthur Hill High School, Class of 1955, and went on to complete her nursing education at St. Mary’s School of Nursing, graduating in 1958. She became a pioneer in neuroscience nursing and neurosurgical nursing, dedicating 15 years to St. Mary’s Hospital in Saginaw, followed by 25 years at MyMichigan Hospital in Midland.

Janet’s career was marked by innovation, leadership, and deep compassion. She played a key role in advancing nursing practice, and her work extended to education and advocacy, supporting patients with multiple sclerosis, promoting continuing nursing education, and helmet safety. Her professional life was driven by a profound desire to care for others, and that same love overflowed into her personal life.

She poured her heart into her family, offering unconditional love and gentle support to those closest to her. A woman of deep Catholic faith, Janet carried her beliefs with quiet strength throughout her life.

Janet was first married to Leo Marvin Sawatzki, with whom she had four children: Mark, Leonette, James and John. Later in life, she was reunited with a dear high school friend, Richard C. “Dick” Hahn. They married on November 15, 1973, and together blended their families with love, welcoming Curt, David, and Roger. Janet and Dick celebrated 51 beautiful years together, filled with laughter, love, and shared passions.

Together, they found joy in gardening, especially hostas, and treasured time spent outdoors and within the gardening community. They were proud members of the Saginaw Valley Hosta Society and volunteered their time at the Saginaw Children’s Zoo, embracing every moment together with joy and generosity.

Janet’s legacy is one of love, care, and connection. Her unwavering devotion to her family, her cherished friends, and the countless lives she touched through her nursing and community work will be remembered with deep gratitude and love. She will be missed dearly by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Janet will be deeply missed by her children: Leonette (Phil) Harvey, James Sawatzki and John (Jeanne) Sawatzki; daughter-in-law, Kathy Sawatzki; step-children: Curt Hahn, David Hahn and Roger Hahn; grandchildren: Logan (Anna Leah), Kaitlin, Kathleen, Ryan, Emily and Hannah; great grandchildren: Lucas and Clio; brother, David (Myra) Eurich; sister, Karen (R. Neil) Hawke; many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. 

Janet was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard C. “Dick” Hahn; son, Mark Sawatzki; and step-daughter-in-law, Christine Hahn.

A service to celebrate Janet’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603. Pastoral Associate, Tori Little will officiate. The service will begin with a Ceremony provided by the Michigan Tri-City Nurse Honor Guard. Janet’s cremated remains will be interred at Riverside Cemetery in Alma next to Richard. Family and friends will gather at the Deisler Funeral Home on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to the Saginaw Children’s Zoo. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com