Gaetan Janson

Gaetan “Gates” Janson, 78, passed away peacefully on 12/14/25 in Libertyville, IL. Gates lived a full life and will be remembered for his kindness and ability to bring joy to others. Born on July 12, 1947 in Lachute, Quebec, Gaetan was the son of Raoul and Yolande Janson. He was the 6th born of 7 children. When Yolande passed away after the birth of her 7th child, all the remaining children were placed in boarding schools or foster care. In 1957, Raoul re-married to a young lady named Yvette. All the children were reunited in Montreal before the entire family moved to Jackson Heights, Queens, NY in 1960. While, Raoul and Yvette spoke both English and French, none of the other family members spoke or understood English. The family held Green Cards to retain their Canadian citizenship while working and living in the US. The language barrier was an incredibly isolating and challenging experience for all. In 1964, Gaetan joined the US Army and actively served for 2 years, 11 months and 16 days. He was stationed in Germany and received commendation with National Defense Service Medal and as Marksman (Rifle). Upon returning to the United States, he worked odd jobs painting and fixing things while enjoying street corner singing and his passion for music. He was a natural musician and played harmonica, drums, spoons and created percussion on nearly everything he touched. On a whim, he followed a friend to Minnesota where he met Gwen. The two fell in love and were married February 7, 1970. Gaetan loved to draw and was initially interested in becoming a draftsman. However, he eventually obtained ASE certification and enjoyed a career as an automotive technician for over 30 years. His family benefitted from his expertise in cars and fixing things. He always made sure everyone had a reliable vehicle. In 1973, Gaetan and Gwen purchased their first home in Robbinsdale, MN. This was a source of great pride for him as he grew up without possessions or even a bed to call his own. He proudly doted on the house, making improvements and working on the landscape. He and Gwen also longed to create a family. They adopted a daughter, Sarah, in 1975 and a son, David, in 1977, both from South Korea. Gates, along with his kids, became naturalized as US citizens in 1981. Known to all as “Gator” or “Gates” by colleagues, friends and family, he was out-going and had a wicked sense of humor. He was always a natural comedian and laughter followed him everywhere. Gates was never quick to anger. He sometimes suffered bouts of severe depression or crippling anxiety but he was always there for his family. His heart was filled with love and kindness for all and he ended every phone call with “I love you.” He now joins in rest his beloved wife Gwen; parents Yolande and Raoul Janson; stepmother Yvette; brothers Laurent, Claude, Raynald, and Joseph; sister Huguette; son David. Gates’ legacy lives on through his daughter Sarah (Joseph) Skinner; grandchildren Jonas Skinner, Hannah Skinner, Elizabeth Janson, and Brandon Janson. He is remembered by sister Joyce (Andrew) Burdi; girlfriend Barb; and many other family and friends. Special thanks to the staff at Green Oaks Senior Living and SunCrest Hospice. A celebration of life memorial will be held at Green Oaks Senior Living, 14595 West Rockland Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2025. Interment will be at Gethsemane Cemetery in New Hope, MN. Arrangements by Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. Memorial donations would be appreciated to the Lake County Forest Preserves, www.lcfpd.org. For info: 847-362-3009 or share a memory at www.burnettdane.com.

Gaetan Janson

July 12, 1947 - December 14, 2025