Janet Elway

Janet Elway: John Elway’s First Wife, Former Swimmer and Philanthropist

Janet Elway is an American philanthropist and a former swimmer. She is the most famous personality in sports and community work. Janet is also the former wife of NFL legend John Elway. For many years, Janet Elway has developed an amazing identity via achievements in sports and helping children in the community. In this blog post, we will guide you through Janet Elway’s early life, career, husband, divorce, net worth, and more.

Janet Elway: Overview

Janet’s full name is Janet Lynn Buchan Elway and is famous by the name Janet Elway. She was born on 17 February 1961 in Seattle, Washington, USA. Janet holds the nationality of America, and by profession, Janet is an Former Athlete and philanthropist. Janet Elway is 64 years old, born in the year 1961. She is famous for Swimming, Philanthropy, and was the former wife of John Elway.

Full NameJanet Lynn Buchan Elway
Other NameJanet Elway
Date of Birth17 February, 1961
BirthplaceSeattle, Washington, USA
Age64 Years Old
Nationality American
ProfessionFormer Athlete and Philanthropist
Famous ForSwimming, Philanthropy, and the former wife of John Elway

Early Life and Educational Qualifications

Speaking of her education, she attended the most prestigious university named Stanford University. She took admission in a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and completed it in 1983. 

As we know, Janet was born in Seattle, Washington, USA. By growing up, she has a powerful spirit, dedication, and the sports ability characteristics that define her life. Janet built an early passion for competitive swimming. During the years of her high school, Janet became the most famous swimmer and continued in college, also gaining her huge recognition.  

Marriage to John Elway

Janet got married to John Elway in 1984. Four years ago, they both were at Stanford University and were undergraduates. Janet and John were both quite famous athletes in their college, John was a footballer, and Janet was a swimmer. It all began with college sweethearts, to getting married in Menlo Park, California, which was attended by a total of 800 guests. 

During the marriage, Janet supported John through the highs and lows of career, attracting media and public attention. Janet balanced family responsibilities, and John emphasised his career with the Denver Broncos. But after 20 years of marriage, the couple got divorced in 2003. Unfortunately, the marriage could not last long. After the separation, they both maintained respect and co-parented their children. 

Janet is focused on taking care of her family and children, while John emphasizes on training and career. Janet mainly focuses on education, personal responsibility, remaining grounded, and taking care of the community. These values are depicted on her children through her volunteer work. After the divorce, Janet kept her life private and emphasised guiding her children, community service, philanthropy and well-being of individuals. 

SpouseJohn Elway
Marriage Year1984
Divorce Finalized2003
Years MarriedNearly 20 Years
Children4
Public RoleNFL Quarterback’s Spouse During Playing Career

Janet Elway Children

As we know, Janet is the mother of four children. She has played a very important role in her children’s lives as the emotions support and emotional support. Janet has raised her children with care, love, freedom, and discipline. She makes sure that her children have a normal childhood because of her husband, John Elway’s status. 

Jessica ElwayEldest daughter
Jordan ElwayFormer college football player
Juliana Elway Recognised for interest in artistic and creatives
Jack ElwayYoungest son and college footballer

Janet Elway New Husband

After the divorce from John Elway, as per the reports, Janet got engaged to Kevin kretzmar who is the president of Centennial-based Safe Money and a branch manager for Summit Brokerage Services. As of now, there is no news of their marriage yet. 

Janet Elway Swimming Career

At Stanford University, Janet was one of the most important members of the swimming team. Given below are some of the career highlights of her career in swimming. Let’s see below:

  • Won the six state championships, containing 500 yard freestyle and 200-yard individual medley. 
  • In 1980, led Stanford’s women’s team to its first national championship.
  • Earned a gold medal in the 400 meter in 1979 World University Games in Mexico.
  • Made the national records and was honoured with various athletic halls such as the Tacoma Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame and the Pacific Northwest Swimming Hall of Fame in the year 2005. 

Janet Athletic Achievements 

YearAchievement
1979Gold Medal – 400m Individual Medley, World University Games
1980Helped Stanford win its first National Swimming Championship
College YearsWon multiple state championships in swimming
2005Inducted into the Pacific Northwest Swimming Hall of Fame
2005Inducted into Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame

Janet Elway Philanthropy Work

Elway has gained a huge respect for her volunteer and philanthropy work. Let’s see some of the initiatives contains:

  • She is the founder of Janet’s Camp, which is a fundraising program for disadvantaged children, and she attended YMCA summer camps.
  • Janet has served the YMCA Board of Trustees and committees that help and promote children’s programs. 
  • Guiding organisations like Kempe Children’s Foundation, Denver Victim’s Service Center and Young Life. 
Organisation / ProgramRole & Contribution
Janet’s CampFounder – Helps underprivileged children attend YMCA camps
YMCABoard Member and Volunteer
Kempe Children’s FoundationSupporter
Denver Victim’s Service CentreCommunity Advocate
Young LifeVolunteer and Supporter

Janet Elway Awards

YearAwardReason
2015Invisible Disabilities Association Volunteer AwardOutstanding volunteer service and advocacy
Multiple YearsCommunity RecognitionLeadership in children’s and youth programs

Janet Elway Net Worth

As of 2026, her net worth has not been disclosed yet. She believes in keeping her life private and mostly spends her time in philanthropy and volunteer work. She generates her income through her swimming career. If we get any information, we will update it here only. 

Conclusion

Janet Elway’s life journey is full of determination and strength. She is hugely recognised as the former wife of NFL legend John Elway, but her identity is more formed by her philanthropy work. From a swimmer and Stanford graduate to becoming a caring mother and a philanthropist, Janet has shown a strong presence in every stage of her life. 

Article Code: JANELW-MAG-001

Also Read: Josh Allen Wife (Hailee Steinfeld) Biography: Age, Height, Movies, Career, Net Worth and More