Jana Kaye Hartz-Maher, 62 passed away on May 2, 2024. She was a resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado for 42 years and was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was in HR Management for the Department of Corrections for 17 years.
Jana was born on August 25, 1961, to Jim Hartz and Norma Turnbo. She was preceded in death by her father, Jim Hartz; her mother, Norma Turnbo; her bonus father, Steve Turnbo; her brother, John Hartz; and her granddaughter, Lillie Maher. Jana is survived by her sister, Nancy Hartz-Cole, (Chris); her bonus mother, Alex Hartz; along with her nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. We will mourn her loss every day.
Jana was married to her only love, Joe Maher for 40 years. They were married in Colorado Springs with friends and family sharing the celebration. Everyone who knows Jana knows that she and Joe are a lifelong story that is grounded in love. Jana is also survived by Joe; her two sons: Austin John Maher and (Sarah), with children: Troy, Levi, Addie, Matthew, Lillie and Samuel; and son, Joseph James Maher, and his son, Channing.
Jana loved Joe, her boys, her beautiful daughter-in-love, Sarah, and her grandchildren more than her very breath. She filled her joyous life with gardening, cooking, all things family, running, horses, her amazing health, and spending time outdoors. She will be remembered for her famous guacamole, homemade sauce and meatballs, the shape of hearts, her love of flowers, heirloom tomatoes, her skill of jewelry making and so much more.
To know Jana is to smile at the very mention of her name and the many seasons of adventure, fun, and her zeal for life. She was a natural born leader, and she did it with ease and kindness. Everyone was drawn to Jana. Her authentic compassion and upbeat personality made everyone feel cared for and at ease.
Ever the professional, her authenticity drew you in, but if you knew her private side, she made everyone hysterical with laughter. Her world class sense of humor would light up the room!
A celebration of life will be held 12:00-5:30pm, Friday, June 14, 2024, at Hillside Gardens, 1006 S. Institute Street, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Colorado Springs Humane Society in honor of Jana would be appreciated.
Jana collected hearts, touched hearts and will be known for capturing all of ours.
Please remember Joe, the boys, and her entire family in your prayers.
Buck Maher
8 May 2024Love you so very much Aunt Jana! You will be missed every single day!