Jane Lou "Mamma Jane" Renskers

Jane Lou Renskers, 65, of Hibbing, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones, after a brief but devastating battle with cancer.

Jane was born in Hibbing on October 28, 1959, to Arnold and Patricia (Kistner) Renskers. She grew up in Kelly Lake and Keewatin and graduated from Nashwauk-Keewatin High School.

Jane’s life was a testament to strength, resilience, and love. She was the strongest woman in the world — a survivor and a fighter who faced challenges that would have broken most. She overcame illnesses that once left her paralyzed and defied diagnoses that said she wouldn’t live past 40. Through it all, her faith and determination never wavered. Her personal mantra, “This too shall pass,” and the Serenity Prayer guided her through her battle with addiction and every hardship she faced.

To those who knew her, she’ll always be Mama Jane — quick-witted, sarcastic, and full of dry humor that could make anyone laugh. She had an incredible gift for connecting with people and made everyone feel welcome, accepted, and loved. She devoted much of her life to supporting others as they worked to rebuild their lives, especially those overcoming addiction. Many credit Mama Jane’s unwavering encouragement and unconditional love as the reason they made it through their darkest times.

Jane never judged anyone and lived by the belief that “This too shall pass.” Her compassion and empathy changed countless lives, and her legacy of love and strength will continue through all who were lucky enough to know her.

Above all else, Jane was devoted to her family. She would do anything for anyone and never asked for anything in return. She had a special bond with her grandchildren, who brought her endless pride and joy — especially her grandson Alaeric “Beep” Larson, whom she helped raise and who held a truly special place in her heart. She was also thrilled for the arrival of her great-granddaughter, Frankie — the great-grandbaby she had yet to meet.

She is survived by her daughters, Krista Powell and Carley (Devin Larson) Rost; siblings Mary Olson, Tim (Hope) Renskers, and Jill (Calvin) Brownlee; grandchildren Bradley (Kyleigh) Powell, Emmaley Powell, Blake Rost, Lainey Rost, Kaylynn Powell, Houston Avery, and Alaeric “Beep” Larson; great-granddaughter Frankie Powell; step-siblings Shane (Sherri) Renskers and Mitzie (Dave) Calgaro; best friend Terri (Dan) Draves; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Patricia Renskers; the father of her children, Chuck; and her beloved son, Aaron Rost.

A memorial service to celebrate Jane’s life will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, October 24th, 2025, at the Dougherty Funeral Home in Hibbing, MN.  Visitation will take place one hour prior at 10:00AM.

Her strength, humor, and compassion will live on forever in the hearts of all who loved her.