Janet Marie Schroeder-Holmes

It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Janet Peterson Schroeder Holmes on May 22, 2026, at the age of 76, after a courageous and lengthy battle with Parkinson's Disease and Lewy body dementia. 

Janet was the cherished daughter of Clifford and Eva Peterson, who predeceased her and who welcomed her into a family that would grow to be the center of her universe. Her early years in Leelanau County were filled with the kind of memories that would remain close to her heart throughout her life. She spoke often of those simpler times filled with love, laughter, and the beauty of her beloved hometown. 

Janet's academic journey led her to Michigan State University, where she completed her degree in Speech and Audiology, followed by a Medical Degree. Her dedication to medicine was a testament to her deep passion for helping others. Janet served the community of Westphalia, Michigan, as a trusted doctor for many years and later extended her compassionate care to the Ottawa and Chippewa tribe in Peshawbestown, Michigan. Her contributions to the health and well-being of her community were immeasurable and left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of receiving her care. 

Janet was a devoted wife and loving mother, roles that she cherished above all else. She was predeceased by her first husband, Dr. Dwight M. Schroeder, and is survived by her beloved husband, Richard L. Holmes, with whom she married in 1989. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and shared moments that Janet treasured deeply. 

Janet is also survived by her stepchildren: Sharon Schroeder Taboada and husband Mark; Hank Schroeder and wife Candice; Carlotta Schroeder; Kim Holmes McColl and husband, Rick; Mitch Holmes and wife Sarah; and Lance Holmes and wife Margie; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; and her best friend since childhood, Betty Elder. Her family and friends were her pride and joy, and she was a guiding light to them all. 

Janet's life was enriched by her passions beyond her professional commitments. An ardent supporter of Michigan State University sports, she found great joy in cheering on the Spartans, particularly during ice hockey, basketball, and football games. Her love for traveling with Richard allowed her to explore the world, yet her heart always led her back to Northport, Michigan, a place she called home in every sense of the word. They lived in several areas, including East Lansing, Michigan; Northport, Michigan; Encinitas, California; Goodyear, Arizona; Houghton Lake, Michigan; and Sebring, Florida. 

Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a devoted member of the Northport Covenant Church community while living in Northport, where she found fellowship and spiritual nourishment. Those who had the honor of knowing Janet will remember her as a woman of immense kindness, compassion, and unwavering love for her family and her cherished pets. Her legacy is one of strength, resilience, and a profound love for life and the people in it. 

A celebration of Janet's life will be held on July 28, 2026, at 3:00 pm at the Evangelical Covenant Church, located at 409 S Shabwasung Street in Northport, Michigan. The service will be a time to honor her memory, celebrate her life, and reflect on the indelible mark she left on the hearts of those she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, a cause that became close to Janet's heart. Janet's journey on this earth may have come to an end, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched through her compassion, warmth, and unwavering love. She will be dearly missed and ever celebrated.