Janet Marie Wagester, 86, of Remus, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026, at My Michigan Medical Center in Midland.

Janet was born on June 26, 1940, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, to John and Marie Starr. Janet spent many years working at Central Michigan University. During her 27-year tenure at CMU, Janet served as the Executive Assistant to six different presidents before retiring as an Emeriti staff member.  She later worked as an administrative director for National Charter Schools in Mount Pleasant.  She was dedicated to her work and took great pride in the many people and organizations she served throughout her career.

Janet was a woman of strong convictions who was never afraid to speak her mind or stand firmly in what she believed. She cherished true friendship and kept a close circle of people she loved and trusted. Those who knew her well knew that her honesty, loyalty, and genuine care for others were some of the qualities that made her so special.

An avid golfer, Janet enjoyed playing both in Michigan and Florida. She also had a true appreciation for good food and good drinks and loved the simple pleasures of life shared with family and friends.
Family was at the heart of Janet’s life. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She held a special place in her heart for her nieces Maggie, Betsy, and her nephews David and Michael, embracing them not just as extended family but as her own cherished grandchildren. Janet’s love was generous, protective, and unwavering, and the memories she created with her family will be treasured for generations to come.

Janet is survived by her brother Dick (Laurie) Starr; children, Julie Wagester, Carmen Longuski, Steven (Kim) Wagester; grandchildren, Benjamin (Hanna) Rosenbalm, Paul (Emilee) Longuski; great-grandchildren, Jude, August, Indee and Walker Longuski; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marie Starr; her brother, Donald Starr; and her husband, Frank Wagester.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who provided loving care and support to both Janet and Frank throughout their later years. Their kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

A memorial service celebrating Janet’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church, 2175 S. Coldwater Road, Mount Pleasant, Michigan, where Janet was a longtime member. Pastor Tuttle will officiate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Zion Lutheran Church (Ladies Aid). Arrangements have been entrusted to Janowicz Family Funeral Home of Remus, Michigan.