Janice (“Sudsie” Grorud) Hagen of La Crosse, Wis., passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008, surrounded by her loved ones. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Janice loved having family gatherings and dinner parties with friends. She had a passion for reading, and enjoyed bowling. She was known for being a big fan of the NFL and Badgers, knowing more about the cute quarterbacks and coaches than most. She was a regular volunteer throughout the city. Janice was an active member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church for over 30 years. 
In one moment, cancer changes everything, but she never quit; strong faith attitude carried her through her battles. This is the legacy that she leaves behind to all who knew and loved her.
Janice was born in Aberdeen, S.D., to Enoch and Clara (Wohl) Grorud and lived in Portland, Ore., and Albert Lea. In Albert Lea, she worked in the family business, Suds-Ur-Duds, and at Wilson’s and St. Paul Clothiers. She moved to La Crosse in 1966. While living in La Crosse, Jan worked for Hawkins Ash & Baptie, Gateway Transportation, and retired from Trane Company after 27 years.
Jan is survived by five children, Tim Hagen of La Crescent, Debra (Brian) Buchanan of Ozark, Ala., Victoria Potaracke of La Crosse, Julie Mangino of Maricopa, Ariz., and John (Roxanne) Bull of Hayward, Wis.; 16 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her brother, Hollis (Joan) Grorud of Albert Lea; two nieces; two great- nephews; and four great-nieces.
Throughout her life, she was always a source of encouragement and support to all who knew her. “Mom was a great teacher. A teacher of things that really matter in life. The things that really make a difference. Strong faith, self confidence, courage, perseverance:  all these things we learned from you.” 
A Christian funeral service will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2720 South 26th St., La Crosse. The Rev. Robert Wassermann will officiate. Friends may call at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Ave. So., La Crosse on Wednesday, from 5 until 7 p.m., and one hour before services at the church.