Janis Mary Baty, 78, of Custer, SD, passed away on February 5, 2024, at Monument Health Hospital in Custer, SD.  She was born March 27, 1945, in Elgin, Illinois to John and Ruth (Witt) Theobold.

Janis's life was a miracle.  As a child, she suffered from many health issues and was not expected to live.  Her grandfather, Dr. Frank Theobald, cared for her and finally sought help in Chicago.  It was then learned she had celiac disease and became the first documented case.  She fought hard and was beyond grateful for the many sacrifices her family made to help her through her struggles. This spurred her on to learn how to best take care of herself.  She followed her sister's footsteps and attended nursing school at Passavant Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.  She became a registered nurse.  She had no idea how this knowledge would be paid forward to touch so many lives.

She began her career as a nurse at Lake Forest, Illinois, where she met her beloved husband, Robert.  They married in 1970 and shortly after moved to Cary, Illinois where they later had their children, Lisa and Robert.  In 1990, she moved with her family to Custer.  Living in the Black Hills was a dream come true for her.  She continued her career as a nurse in Custer.  After retiring, she worked at the Custer County Chronicle part-time and enjoyed volunteering at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

In addition to devoting herself to her family and friends, she loved the outdoors and spending time with her dogs and horses.  Touring through the Black Hills was always a treat and a blessing for her.  She felt truly at home in Custer.

Janis was known for her deep faith and the love of her family and friends.  She always put the needs of others first and touched so many lives.

Christian Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 A.M., Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer, SD.  Christian Funeral Committal will be held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, February 12, 2024, at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

Memorials may be given to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for vestments.