Jeanette Marie Galliard, 87, who lived in Columbus, Wisconsin on North Birdsey St. for several years, passed away on April 18, 2024, after a two year battle with cancer.  She was born on February 20, 1937, in Thornton, Illinois, the only child of Andrew and Beatrice Galliard.  They lived on a small acreage farm, with Andrew working at a factory by day, and then on the side, raising and selling chickens at first, and then later, turkeys.   She grew up with a love for the outdoors, instilled in her by her father, who often took her boating and fishing.  Family vacations usually consisted of short tent camping trips.  Her love of dolls and doll houses started as a child, as her parents presented her with a new doll every year until she was 14.  Her love of reading was instilled in her by her mom, who would read to her every night as a child, while some of her cats would be allowed in her room to listen.

Jeanette started her nursing career as a nurse's aide at age 17 in 1954.  All the training nurse's aides received in those days was "on the job".    Twelve years later, in 1966, after more schooling, and having her first three sons, Jeanette became a registered nurse.   She served in that capacity, in various roles, for the next 50 years, finally retiring in early 2016.  While living in Columbus, Jeanette worked for VNS (Visiting Nurse Service) in Madison.  In addition, she earned her BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1976.  Then later in 2003, she earned a Master of Arts Degree in Servant Leadership from Viterbo University in Wisconsin.

In her free time, Jeanette was an avid traveler who explored the USA, Europe, and Africa. She enjoyed camping, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. Her love for animals, especially dogs and cats, led her to rescue and care for numerous furry companions over the years.

Jeanette is survived by her sons: Howard Hecox (Lindy), Timothy Kennelly (Vicky), Adam Olszewski (Kimberly), and daughter-in-law Sandy Kennelly. She was preceded in death by her parents Andrew and Beatrice Galliard, also residents of Columbus, and her son Andrew Kennelly. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Patrick Hecox, Krystle Hecox, Eleanore Hecox, Connor Kennelly, Ryan Kennelly, Erin Kennelly, and great-grandchildren Ryelle Kennelly, and Dylan Listy.

Jeanette will be buried in Hillside Cemetery near her parents.  A graveside service will be held starting at 11:30 AM on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Hillside  on North Lewis Street, Columbus, Wisconsin.

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Jeanette's family at jensenfuneralandcremation.com