Janet I. (Berg) Burnside

Janet “Jan” Irene Burnside, age 81 of Glenwood, formerly Colorado died Friday, February 5, 2026 at the Glacial Trails Memory Care in Starbuck. A memorial service for Jan will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28th at the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial services and burial will also be held in Colorado. Memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. at South Sub Chrisitan Church, 7275 S. Broadway, Littleton, CO, 80122, on Wednesday, May 27th followed by burial in Fort Logan National Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood.

Janet Irene Burnside was born on July 1, 1944, in Glenwood, Minnesota. Jan was the cherished daughter of Forrest and Bernice (Gerde) Berg. Her life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and dedication to a cause greater than oneself.

Jan grew up in the close-knit community of Glenwood, where she attended local schools and graduated from Glenwood High School in 1963. Her formative years in this nurturing environment shaped the compassionate and caring individual she would become. Jan's heart found its match when she was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Robert Burnside. Bob and Jan made their home in Colorado. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Robin Irene Burnside, who was the light of Jan's life.

Tragedy struck when Jan faced the unimaginable loss of her daughter to suicide. This profound sorrow became the catalyst for her life's mission: to prevent suicide and provide support for those grappling with this silent epidemic. Jan's relentless advocacy and support work in Colorado earned her recognition as an Outstanding Colorado Woman to Congress, an honor bestowed upon her by Hon. Scott McInnis. "Jan's work in the field of suicide prevention has been tireless," he remarked. "Her work with the State of Colorado has touched many hearts and saved many lives."

Jan's Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through her darkest days and inspiring her to help others. Her selfless nature was evident in every aspect of her work and her interactions with those around her. She was a beacon of hope for many, tirelessly working to ensure that no other family would have to endure the pain she knew all too well.
In addition to her advocacy work, Jan had a profound love for animals, especially dogs. She raised and trained K-9 puppies for the Denver Police Department, taking great joy in preparing these faithful companions for their important roles in law enforcement. She enjoyed shopping and jewelry. Jan also found joy in traveling with Bob as they worked together to build programs for suicide prevention across the nation.

In 2021 Jan and Bob moved to Glenwood to be closer to family. When Jan needed more help with her daily care she moved into the Glacial Trails Memory Care in Starbuck. She died there on Friday, February 6, 2026 surrounded by her family.
Jan is survived by her husband, Robert; her sister, Bonnie Holthusen; and nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Robin; sisters Phyllis Simonson and Colleen Vergin.

As we bid farewell to Janet Irene Burnside, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and grace. Her memory will continue to inspire and her spirit will forever be a guiding light for those who continue the fight against the shadows of despair. Jan's journey on this earth has ended, but her influence will resonate for generations to come.

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