Jan Rose Detwiler

Jan Rose Detwiler, a devoted mother, proud patriot, and steadfast friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025, in Grand Junction, Colorado, at the age of 86.

Born on March 24, 1939, in Lancaster, Ohio, Jan was the cherished daughter of the late John Paul and Mary Ann Detwiler. She grew up with her older brother Jon and younger brother Jerry in Millersport, Ohio. Jan graduated from Millersport High School, Class of 1957.

Jan’s unwavering commitment to her country began when she joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1958, where she honorably served. During her service, she delivered mail on the base and worked with children teaching horseback riding and swimming, amongst other activities. During her deployment she met her future husband, Harold James “Jim” Kiggins. They were married in 1961 and together raised two sons, Brian Keith and Keith Alan. Jim and Jan were fixtures in the Grand Valley for more than 40 years.

Following her military service, Jan dedicated her professional life to public service, working for both the Garfield County Government and the State of Colorado. A fierce patriot throughout her life, Jan remained deeply involved in veterans' causes. She was a respected member and Vice Commander of the American Legion Chapter in Rifle, Colorado. Later in life Jan found a loving partner in Bert Garlitz with whom she shared 28 years of adventure. Together they enjoyed the open road on their motorcycle, shared many road trips in their RV and cherished their winters in Southern Arizona.

Jan was a woman of remarkable character—animal lover, kind hearted, loving, independent, tough as nails, and an open book; you never had to wonder where she stood. Above all, she was a loving mother who instilled her resilience and spirit in her family. She delighted in simple pleasures, particularly her love for cooking, and was celebrated among friends and family for her famous caramel corn. She also was an accomplished bowler, a worthy dominoes opponent and loved bingo. Jan had a special talent for making people feel welcome and would converse with anyone.

Jan’s adventurous spirit, kind heart and love of family and friends impacted all who knew her.

Jan is survived by her partner of 28 years, Bert Garlitz; her sons, Brian and Keith; her four grandchildren, Brenley, Caroline, Kayla, and Grace; her brothers, Jon and Jerry; her cousins, Linda, Brenda, Cynda, and Rhonda, her nieces and nephews; Doug, Dave, Kyle, Kendra and Christopher. Let us not forget her precious, furry companion, Fernando. She leaves behind a legacy of service, honesty, and deep affection that will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

A full military honors service will take place at the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Grand Junction, Colorado, on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. sharp. The Cemetery is located at 2830 Riverside Pkwy, Grand Junction, CO 81501.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date in Rifle, CO.

Funeral reception immediately following the service, please RSVP here: https://funeralreceptionforjandet.rsvpify.com/ 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a veteran's organization or local animal shelter in Jan's honor.