Janis A. Mickelson Parsons

Janis Annette Mickelson-Parsons 62, of Indianapolis, passed away Sunday morning, June 16, 2013. Janis was born November 1, 1950 in LaPorte, IN, the daughter of the late Avery and Naomi Mickelson. Janis graduated from LaPorte High School in 1969 and attended Ball State University, where she studied Education, receiving a Bachelor's in 1972, followed by a Master's Degree in 1980. While at Ball State she met her future husband, Kevin Parsons and they married in November 1972. Janis was a loving and supportive mother of two daughters, Sarah and Elizabeth, who will always value the thirst for knowledge and equality that their mother instilled in them. Janis enjoyed a life of love and appreciation as teacher, friend, mother and wife. Janis began teaching for IPS in 1972 and continued her career with Warren Township School District, diligently shaping young minds for over 36 years. Mrs. Parsons taught fifth grade at Eastridge Elementary School and later sixth grade Language Arts, Science and Math at Raymond Park Middle School, retiring from Warren Township in 2008. Mrs. Parsons was a member of many professional organizations, including the National Education Assoc. and the Indiana Reading Assoc. She was previously honored as a "Who's Who Among America's Teachers" and "Who's Who in American Education." In 1992, Mrs. Parsons was one of the first teachers to participate in "Space Camp" at NASA in Huntsville, AL. She was also a member of the Chi Omega Sorority and Sigma Delta Pi Educators Fraternity. For the past two years, Janis battled Ovarian Cancer and fought gracefully, enduring so many complications along the way. She was an inspiration to all who knew and loved her. Janis is survived by her husband of forty years, Kevin K. Parsons; daughters Sarah (Chris) West; Elizabeth (Erik) Goens; brothers, Gregory (Patti) and Kenneth (Claudia) Mickelson; Uncle, William Mickelson; Mother-in-law, Sara Parsons; brothers-&-sisters-in-law: Craig (Deb) Parsons, Cheri Schupp and Phyllis Roach; loving cousins, nephews, nieces; and many wonderful friends. Family and friends will gather Saturday, June 22, 2013 1pm-4pm at Flanner and Buchanan –Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington St, with a Memorial Life Service beginning at 4pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ovar'coming Together, 2625 N. Meridian St., Ste 108 Indpls, IN 46208 or visit www.OvarianCancerIN.org, an organization for the Ovarian Cancer survivors and support. Family and friends can sign the online guestbook for Janis at: www.flannerbuchanan.com.