Jan

Today was the funeral for Shannon’s Aunt Jan. She passed away this week from brain cancer. Jan was only 53 years old. It’s tragic for someone to pass with so many good years ahead. Cancer is such a devastating disease and has struck this family before, which adds to the pain of another life being taken. Jan had an infectious smile and lots of enthusiasm. She was remembered today as “the sparkplug that charged everyone up.” Her son Christopher recalled how his mom was the loudest parent at his football games. Jan leaves behind an inspiration to always be positive and enjoy life. She enjoyed life most by loving her family. Her kids described her as their best friend. Jan liked traditions. She included our kids in the tradition of celebrating a birth in the family by having custom decorated pottery plates made with our children’s names and birthdates. Our children were the latest in the family to be baptized and Jan provided a family gown for the kids to wear. Alex and Ciara were the 4th generation in the family to be dressed in the gown. Jan was an elementary school teacher. Therefore, it is not only a great loss for this family but for the many kids whose lives she helped develop. Appropriately, the funeral was on the first storm and school cancellation snow day of the winter. This was a salute from above to Jan the teacher. We pray for Uncle Doug and Shannon’s cousins Karen, Mark and Christopher, that they may live their lives in her honor. May we all carry on her spirit. Jan will be missed.