Janet Von Auer

Janet Von Auer, 76, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, passed away on June 26, 2026.

Janet was born on October 10, 1949, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Lyle Hoffa and Bonnie (Auerswald) Hoffa. She grew up in South Minneapolis and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1967.

A strong-willed and independent woman, Janet lived life on her own terms. Following her divorce, Janet chose and legally adopted the surname Von Auer, a name that reflected her independent spirit and sense of self.

Janet spent many years as a small business owner alongside her former husband, Allan Meisenholder. Together they owned and operated Meisenholders (Quick Photos and Quick Cleaners) in Rosemount, Minnesota, serving the community until the business was sold in 1992.

Following the sale of the business, Janet joined Kohl's, where she served as a Jewelry Department Shift Leader and Cash Office Supervisor from 1992 to 2010. In 2000, she also began a second career with Cigna Tel-Drug, balancing both roles until retiring from Kohl's in 2010 and from Cigna in 2015. At Cigna, she worked as a Certified Clinical Pharmacy Technician and Pharmacy Quality Auditor. Throughout her career, Janet was known for her dedication, attention to detail, and strong work ethic.

Janet believed in giving back to her community. She volunteered as a Tax-Aide through Active Generations and with the League of Women Voters. She also supported numerous charitable organizations throughout her life, including Feeding South Dakota, Children's Inn, South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Minnesota Public Radio, and the Sioux Falls Humane Society.

She enjoyed many pursuits over the years and could often be found with a good book in hand, searching for treasures while antiquing, or spending time on the golf course and bowling lanes. Janet also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved cats, Fred and Ethel, who brought her endless laughter, joy, and companionship.

Family was important to Janet, and she was proud of the life she built for herself and her children. Those who knew her will remember her intelligence, independence, quick wit, and generous spirit. She valued learning, civic engagement, and helping others, and she left a lasting impression on friends, family, coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Lyle and Bonnie Hoffa; her son, Jacob Meisenholder; her former husband, Allan Meisenholder; and her siblings, Joel Hoffa and Dawn Hoffa.

She is survived by her daughters, Jessica Meisenholder and Tamara Meisenholder (Thad Carter); her siblings, Steve (Marge) Hoffa, Mark Hoffa, and Diane Rader; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her greatly.

In accordance with Janet's wishes, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice, particularly organizations supporting animal welfare, public broadcasting, community assistance, or any of the causes Janet supported throughout her life.

Janet's family takes comfort in the memories she leaves behind and the positive impact she made on so many lives.