Margaret (Kane) Jantz
Margaret (Kane) Jantz , Age 96
Margaret “Muggs” (Kane) Jantz, age 96, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at home on the farm with her family by her side.
Margaret, the first of Clement and Lucia (Vining) Kane’s three daughters, was born January 24, 1930 in Boscobel. Following the tragic passing of her young mother, Margaret and her sister, Betty, lived with various family members while baby sister Mary was raised by other relatives. In grade school, Margaret formed deep friendships with Frannie Wilson and Nancy Cone that endured for more than 80 years. In 2nd grade, Frannie nicknamed her “Muggs”, a nickname that lasted for the rest of her life. During her early teens, Muggs got a job working in downtown Baraboo at the Alpine Restaurant where she developed a strong work ethic along with a love for a chocolate malt with a hamburger on bread.
Margaret met her future husband Harry while attending Baraboo High School from which they both graduated in 1948. Harry, with a characteristic twinkle in his eye said, “I figured you should find a smart woman and stick with her.” Following his own advice, he and Muggs shared 60 good years of marriage together before his passing in 2009.
Life for Margaret involved a strong faith in God, hard work, including farming, working at Badger Ordnance, and driving school bus for 25 years. She found joy in dancing, playing games with family and friends, singing, acting in Theatre Guild productions, knitting, sewing, and reading.
Margaret is survived by daughters, Carolynn (Charles) Koberstein, Gail (Mark) Barnes, and Susan (Timothy) Schultz; daughters-in-law, Susan Jantz and Barbara Jantz; and brother-in-law, Norman Zemel. She is further survived by seven grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Harry; sons, Stuart and Kevin; granddaughter, Julie; sisters, Betty and Mary; three brothers-in-law; and two sisters-in-law.
A Celebration of Margaret’s Life will be held at New Life Community Church, 1919 Elizabeth Street in Baraboo, Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Jesse Stevens officiating. A time of fellowship in the church hall will follow. Private Burial will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Baraboo Theatre Guild or to the Baraboo Public Library.
A special thanks to Agrace Hospice for their support and care.
Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences
Lynn Bubolz April 13, 2026
Friends Rio , Wisconsin
Hugs to the Jantz family. We are so blessed that Margaret always seemed like part of our family. She was one in a million. Prayers for all as we move forward, always cherishing our beautiful moments. Love, Lynn and Daniel Bubolz
Brenda Emery April 13, 2026
Friend North Freedom , Wisconsin
Sending prayers for peace & comfort during this difficult time. Life well lived. Rest easy
Bev Shook and Family April 13, 2026
Friend of the Family since 1967 Baraboo , Wisconsin
Dear Jantz family: Such a well lived life Margaret enjoyed. So many fond memories over the years to numerous to list; the love, the laughter, the chores!! Hold all of the wonderful memories close to your hearts. Thinking of you all with love. Bev Shook and Family
Keri Olson April 13, 2026
Family Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Dear Friends, I am so very sorry for your loss. I hold you in my prayers for comfort and peace. May warm memories fill your hearts, and may the love of all of us who care about you give you strength. My deepest sympathies.
Peggy High April 13, 2026
Old bus student Portage
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Muggs driving my school bus. She was definitely a special lady.
Katie Cummings April 14, 2026
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Everyone should have friends as good as Muggs! The way their friend group would speak of one another was truly incredible and inspiring. My sincerest condolences to the whole family... she truly was one of a kind!
marleneMickey powell parchem April 14, 2026
old friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry to learn of Muggs passing. She wAS A DEAR FRIEND OF MANY YEARS SINCE HIGH SCHOOL. So sorry for your loss. God Bless You all.
Sue Ryan April 16, 2026
Friend of Family Janesville , Wisconsin
Been Friends with Carolyn since 1970! Enjoyed the parties at the farm play on the Sandbars and the Huge Yard.. Such a Fun person to be around, Upbeat Outlook on Life. Her Love of Lord and her Family was Paramount! Tender Mercies to All who Loved her as You All Remember the GOOD TIMES!
Martha Gransee Fernandez April 16, 2026
High School friend of Carolyn San Marcos , California
Carolyn and family, I’m sad to hear of your mom’s death. 96 -WOW!! My Mom and Dad really enjoyed them when we were in Baraboo. I realize she and Mom would have been the same age! As people have mentioned she really was a lot of fun! One thing I particularly remember is a pig roast on your farm along the WI (?) River. My sister Cindy said she remembers riding a horse at your place and really freaking out when it started to gallop! She had no experience with that!! May God enfold you in his loving arms and grant you peace while you go through this difficult time. I’m certain you will talk about her often remembering the good times.
Thomas Gandee April 16, 2026
Friend Edenton , North Carolina
Dear Gail and family, Take heart in knowing what an amazing mother and woman your mother was! . May God hold you close as you say goodbye and comfort your family. I send my love to you and your wonderful family during the solemn time. With love. Tom
Greg and Cheryl McIntire April 19, 2026
neighbor Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss. She will be missed.
Neighbors of Gail in South Carolina April 21, 2026
Friends Anderson , South Carolina
To Gail and family-Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your precious Mother. We are thinking of you and your family during this time of remembrance. Prayers for comfort and strength.