Dear Family and friends My name is Nancy, I am Janis Parker's niece. I am not able to be with you all this morning but wanted to share some special memories and thoughts with you about my wonderful Godmother, my Aunt Janis. There are certain words that come to mind that describe Aunt Janis such as unconditional kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness, unselfishness, strength, giving, all encompassed in a strong Christian faith. Ever since I can remember, when my brothers Ed & Kurt and sister Karen and I were kids, Aunt Janis and Uncle Russell were there throughout our lives. They happily accepted the offer to become our Godparents when each of us were born and from that time on they fulfilled this role beyond all expectations. We are grateful for the choice my parents made selecting Janis and Russell to be part of our lives in such a special way. As we grew up, there was never a holiday, a birthday, or an occasion where they weren't part of in some way. There was always a card in the mail when it was your birthday and it was never late, something I have tried to accomplish and emulate over the years but haven't been nearly successful. They were also there for our Confirmations, graduations, showers, weddings, and welcomed our children with the same love and joy as each of them were born. She took a genuine interest and involvement in our own kids as she did with us. It would be impossible to recall all the special memories shared with Janis and Russell, so I would like to share just a few with you. When my daughters were born, my mother and Aunt Janis drove from Cleveland to Kentucky to assist. Their arrival was truly a welcome site since my whole family lived in Ohio. They both helped with some much-needed deep cleaning, making my favorite home cooked meals, and baby care. My house was never quite as clean or meals tastier than while they were there. Nothing made us happier than my mom and Janis getting busy in our kitchen, both incredible cooks. It was a beautiful site indeed ! This was one example of many of her caring ways. Aunt Janis was also known for her high energy she displayed. My sister Karen, mom, and I traveled to Ft. Myers to visit her and Uncle Russell. Aunt Janis was known for getting up at the crack of dawn, cooking up a gourmet breakfast, packing coolers with incredible sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. She always knew what everyone liked on their sandwiches and never got it wrong! The car was packed with all the necessary beach equipment. She would have this all accomplished before any of us awoken to the aroma of her delicious meal! To this day, I don't know how she consistently accomplished many of the things she did. She was an amazing and inspiring person. After a full day at the beach and sun, we would all head back the condo to get ready to head out for the evening to listen to some good Reggae bands, dance, and laugh at some ridiculous event that happened. Yes, she enjoyed some good, youthful, lively music like the younger generations did. She was a lot of fun! None of us could keep up with her! We were stationed in Hawaii in the Army and Janis, Russell, and my mother came out to visit us. This was an incredible memorable trip for all of us. We flew to Maui to spend a couple days excited to experience whale watching. As we were boarding the catamaran, the Beach Boys began playing loudly and everyone starting getting excited for the trip. There was no doubt that there was an atmosphere of happiness and excitement. As everyone was boarded and we were headed out into the Pacific, the captain announced that the bar was open and the Mai Tais were ready for consumption. He encouraged many visits to the bar because he claimed the more Mai Tai's we drank, the more whales we would see. Janis, Russ, my mom and I had to test this theory. We enjoyed a couple Mai Tais and yes, we did see a lot of whales that day! What fun we all had. So, today as we honor Janis Parker, let us all feel blessed that she was a part of all our lives, gave so much of herself and time to so many people including family, friends, church, and neighbors. I will cherish the large shoebox full of letters she has written me over the years. I will remember her generosity each Christmas as we decorate our tree with the memorable ornaments she sent every year. I will miss our talks on the phone and seeing each other. Let us all replace the feelings of sadness and grief with comfort knowing that Janis is with God and that some day we all we be together again. May her spirit of life live in all of us each and every day.
Posted by: Nancy Novak Bradenton, FL - niece/Goddaughter   Jan 20, 2010

Aunt Janis: You and Uncle Russell have been the best Godparents anyone could ask for. You have tought me sooo much over the years. I can only pray to be half the aunt and godmother that you have been to me. I will miss you sooo much and will never forget the fun and laughs we had or lifes lessons you have taught and displayed over the years. Rest in peace, you earned it. I love you very much and will treasure the memories you have given us. God's Garden God looked upon His garden and saw an empty place, then He looked upon the earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you and lifed you to rest. Gods garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew you were suffering, He knew you were in pain, He knew you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered peace be thine. It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn't go alone for part of us went with you The day He called you home. Don Kaye
Posted by: Karen Zanotti - neice/goddaugher   Jan 19, 2010

Russ, Rich, Sue, Rory, Mike & Steve, Keith & Kristi , Michele & Katie, Zack, Andrew, Ellie, & Nick My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know you have lost a wonderful wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandma & great grandma. She was one special lady! Lot's of love and heart felt prayers. Diane, Carrie & Rob Ziarko (and John Grabowski)
Posted by: Diane Ziarko Whiting , NJ - sister of Susie, her daughter-in   Jan 19, 2010

Grandma was one of the strongest people I have ever known. She lived life her way, which was full of love, compassion, and faith. A Grandmother's love is something that can't be put into words. I thank God that I was so blessed to have a Grandma who loved me so much. She spoiled us rotten, and some of my greatest memories are gifts from her! Whether it was a trip swimming out on her boat, homemade chocolate chip cookies, or just simply the excitement of a Christmas at her house, nothing can quite describe how Grandma made me smile. Possibly the most amazing thing about my Grandma, though, was her unwavering faith. When sometimes the question, "Why?", was so obvious to those around her, she understood that no matter what life brought, it was all in God's plan. That never changed. That was never questioned. That was the strength a truly amazing person! I love you Grandma, and I know this is merely a "See you later", because you taught me that as much as anyone in this world!
Posted by: Steve Medina, OH - Grandson   Jan 19, 2010

Russ and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn Jan's passing. We have many happy memories of Jan when you were members of Gethsemane Luth in North Jackson. Marge & Don
Posted by: Donald & Marjorie French Canfield, OH   Jan 18, 2010

Our sincere sympathy's to Steve and the entire family.
Posted by: John and Eva Gallagher - Friend   Jan 18, 2010