Janet P. Malmberg

Janet Palmeri Malmberg, 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 11, 2025. Born on July 21, 1940, Jan called Rockford home for most of her life, but her adventurous spirit took her on many travels around the world. She lived a life marked by her sharp intelligence, natural curiosity, and an irreverent sense of humor that brought smiles to all who knew her.

A lifelong educator, Jan taught English at Roosevelt Middle School before becoming the Head of the Rockford Storefront School and ultimately becoming the principal of Rockford East High School. Her genuine love for her family extended to the countless children in the school system whom she connected with over the years.

Jan shared everything with her best friend and wife, Connie Rounds, and together they navigated life with gusto. Special spots for Jan and Connie were a lake cabin in the Wisconsin Northwoods and many destinations in Italy. Jan took pride in her Italian heritage, cooking Italian specialties and speaking Italian. She also had an ear for music, with a particular fondness for the strings, folk music and early rock and roll. Her love of the arts added color that brightened most every conversation with her.

Jan is survived by her two sons and their families: Matt and Kimber Malmberg, Hannah Pennington (Jake McGuire) and Marcus Pennington, who loved 'Grandma Jan' and her spirited conversations; and Ken, East, and Anders Apthorp Lucius Malmberg, who live in Florida. Jan and Connie spent many winters in Florida sharing fun and laughter with young Anders on Indian Rocks Beach.

Those who knew her will remember Jan for her bright eyes, sly smile and warm heart. Her quick wit and intellect were complemented by a genuine, touching compassion.

The immediate family plans to gather in the Northwoods of Wisconsin later this year to remember and celebrate Jan and Connie.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Womanspace in Rockford

https://womanspace-rockford.org/