Jan Koerner grew up in St. Louis, Mo., and was a member of a Lutheran church. She moved to Wisconsin in 1976 and joined the Catholic church in 1983. She was a speech/language pathologist before retirement.
Jan married John Irwin on Oct. 11, 2014. They were members of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish where Jan volunteered as a Eucharistic Minister, “Team Leader” (sacristan), and first grade catechist. She entered the Associate Relationship in 1994. She said her life was enriched and her spiritual life was nurtured by being an Associate. “I’ve heard dozens of stories of how God has worked in the lives of the other Associates and the Sisters. Having known many of these people for decades I’ve seen them face struggles and persevere and rejoice when blessings have been received. I’m awed by the variety of ways God works in people’s lives. It’s helped me to see God working in my life.”
She valued the friendships she had with the Sisters and Associates, and the chances to pray, share faith, and learn together during Associate activities and Community events. Jan served as President of the Associates, a presenter at Associate Gatherings, and a member of the Community Spiritual Renewal Committee. She was appointed the Director of the Associate Relationship January 2023 and served until her time of death this year. She was preceded in death by her husband on April 26, 2020.