Janice Rice

Janice Rice, age 97 longtime resident of Hibbing, MN died Saturday, June 13, 2026. She passed away peacefully at the St. Luke's Hospice in Duluth, MN. Janice was born December 20,1928 in Clitherall, MN. She was the daughter of Neil and Enda (Curtis) Fletcher. She was united in marriage to Martin H. Rice in May of 1950.

She was a homemaker and loved to entertain family and friends. Janice loved spending time with her grandchildren and often cared for them while their parents were working. She loved to cook and would share her baked goods and meals with all who were available. We’ll think of her when we smell fresh baked chocolate chip cookies, homemade bread, and cinnamon rolls. Janice was a member of the First Lutheran Church of Hibbing and enjoyed helping with the church newsletter and taking part in Bible school especially when her grandchildren were attending.

When you received a card from her, it was always appreciated because of the care and thoughtfulness she put into it. It wasn’t just a card, it was a special message, some fun story or advice, stickers, and a joke.

Janice is survived by her children: Irene Schmelzer of Nashwauk, Daniel Rice of Hibbing; siblings Jerry “Tid” Fletcher of Hibbing, Sarah Lagren of Oklahoma, and Louis LaBarge of Kelly Lake; grandchildren Jamie (Grace) Schmelzer, Shane Schmelzer, Amanda (Ryan) Wingenbach, Kristy (Christopher) Shaw, Kaylee (Daniel) Harasyn, and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Curtis and Edna Fletcher; husband Martin Rice; brothers Robert and Leslie; sisters Marilyn, Jeanne, and her daughter in law Jane (Savage) Rice.

Services will take place on Friday June 26, 2026, at First Lutheran Church of Hibbing officiated by Pastor Deitz. The visitation will be at 10:00am and the funeral will follow at 11:00am.