Jane Elizabeth Mavec

Jane Elizabeth Mavec, age 74, passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota. Born Jane Elizabeth Barker to Jay Barker and Lydia Whiteside in Duluth, Minnesota, she is survived by her children; Sara of New York, NY and Joseph (Hannah Endicott) of Duluth, MN. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jim Barker, as well as her husband, David.

Jane graduated from Denfeld High School in 1970, where she played the French horn. After high school, Jane attended University of Minnesota, Duluth, and earned her Associates Degree in Education.

Jane was a beloved swim teacher, coach, and lifeguard at the Downtown Duluth YMCA. She taught hundreds of children in the Duluth area how to feel safe and love being in the water. She was an enthusiastic coach for the youngest Duluth swimmers, coaching the 8 and under YMCA team for over 20 years. Her passion for teaching and swimming was felt by all who were lucky enough to get in the pool with her. Even after she retired from coaching, she loved to see her former swimmers around town and was loved and appreciated by so many Duluth families.

Jane was a lifelong member of Hillside United Methodist Church and found a loving community there. She found meaningful work at Hillside, especially when volunteering for Loaves & Fishes. She also loved reading and picking blueberries, especially at her beloved cabin at Lake Vermilion, where she had many happy times with her friends and family.

A Memorial Service will take place on Sunday, February 15 at 3:00 p.m. at Hillside United Methodist Church, 1801 Piedmont Ave, Duluth, MN, all are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Hillside United Methodist Church.