Jeannette Gauss

Jeannette Ann Atkins Gauss passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2016, in Lees Summit, MO. Jan lived 89 fabulous years and was the mother of twelve children. She was born December 24, 1926, in Paola, Kansas, to John and Jeannette Riley. In 1942 Jan’s family moved to Kansas City where she attended St.  Teresa’s Academy and graduated from Mount Saint Scholastica.  Jan loved to travel. Whether the trip was Ireland or Iowa she was always ready to go.  She gained her love of travel as a child, traveling the United States and Canada by railroad. In 1949 she married Louis Atkins and they had twelve children together. Louis died in 1973. In 2009 she married Bill Gauss. They were avid dancers. When they danced people stopped dancing to watch them. Her children are deeply thankful for the happy years they were able to enjoy together. Jan was a devout member of Our Lady of Presentation Catholic Church in Lee’s Summit and enjoyed a walk to Mass with her husband almost every morning.

Jan was preceded in death by her husband Louis Atkins, son Jim, brother Jack Riley, sister Gladys Penrod, and many friends. She leaves behind her husband Bill Gauss, daughters Barbara Case, Jeanne Barber and husband Bruce, Carol Atkins, Sharon Walsh and husband Kevin, and daughter-in-law Robin Atkins. She also leaves her sons Rick Atkins and wife Gina, Dennis Atkins and wife Lorna, David Atkins and wife Julie, Stephen Atkins and wife Marcy, Tom Atkins and wife Dana, Bill Atkins and wife Karen, and Bob Atkins. She leaves her sister Patricia Williamson, 27 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Mom’s smile and wave will be missed by many.

Rosary will be said at 9:30AM at Our Lady of Presentation Catholic Church 130 NW Murray Rd., Lee’s Summit, MO on Friday, January 15, 2016. Visitation from 9:45-10:45 AM. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Mt. St. Mary’s Cemetery. Share online condolences at TerraceParkFuneral.com.

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