Janell Diane Embretson

Janell Diane Embretson, 84, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, passed away on September 22, 2025. She was born July 30, 1941, in Wichita, Kansas.

A lifelong educator, Janell began her career in 1963, driving herself to California to teach in Watts. Over the years she returned to the Midwest, ultimately making Minnesota her home and concluding her career as a guidance counselor at Simley High School in Inver Grove Heights.

Deeply rooted in the Apple Valley community, Janell cherished time with friends and supported her husband Gary in his many endeavors. She was a strong, independent feminist before her time and inspired her children and grandchildren to follow her lead.

Janell was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Rolene. She is survived by her sister Melody Wagner and brother-in-law Donnie; daughters Sigrid (Al) and Tova (Dustin); grandchildren Johanna, Isabella, Erik, Levi, Aden, and Soren; and great-grandchildren Scarlett and Talen.

Memorials are preferred to Minnesota Valley Women's Chorale or Grace Lutheran Church.

A visitation will be held Friday, October 17, at 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. A celebration of life will follow at The Tavern in Apple Valley.