Jean Loraine (Michaelis) Werner

Loving and lively grandmother, mother and sister Jean Lorraine Werner passed away in her Kinsley, KS home on October 17, 2021, 2 days before her 75th birthday.

Jean was born to Clara and Clarence “Shorty” Michaelis in Dodge City, KS. After graduating high school in Kinsley, Jean attended Fort Hays State University where she attained a Bachelors of Science in Nursing and later attained her Masters of Science in Education from Kansas State University. Jean excelled in her professional life as an obstetrics nurse, spending over 20 years delivering babies around the globe. She was a proud lifelong learner, but also enjoyed teaching and giving. She instructed college nursing, tutored at the local high school, helped with summer youth library programs and volunteered at the community thrift store.

Jean could occasionally be described as wonderfully eccentric – at least by her children. She loved bright colors, eclectic art and worldly styles. She was a woman who loved to laugh and enjoyed being in the middle of conversations. She brought energy to a room, and matched it with smart conversation and unapologetic opinions.

After her grandchildren, children and sister, Jean’s biggest loves (and sidekicks) were her dogs. From Maggie to Morty to Goldie, a faithful canine companion was almost always at Jean’s side. Another staple in Jean’s life was the piano. She was a skilled musician who often performed during services at the Congregational Church of Kinsley. Her kids remember well the songs of Barry Manilow, Johnny Mathis and Billy Joel ringing from her prized Yamaha during many of their childhood evenings.

Jean was loved by many for a multitude of reasons, but mostly just for being Jean. She is survived by her grandchildren, Joshua Werner, Madison Schillinger and Anelia Werner; her daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Daniel Schillinger of Basel, Switzerland; her son and daughter-in-law, A.J. and Galina Werner of Arlington, VA; and her sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Richard Wenstrom of Kinsley, KS.

A memorial service and celebration of life in Jean’s honor will be held at the Congregational Church of Kinsley at 1 PM on Saturday, 23 October. She will be buried in a family service at Hillside Cemetery outside of Kinsley.

Memorial donations can be made to the Congregational Church of Kinsley Foundation for Scholarships.