JANIS LAMB

Condolences & Memories (41 entries)

• Reading all these tributes to Janis and her family brought back very fond memories of knowing Janis in junior high/high school. She was always kind, thoughtful and considerate of others' feelings/circumstances and Full of Life. At the time, she was a blessing in my life. So wonderful to see how she impacted so many people. RIP Janis. - Posted by: Bonnie Burns (School friend) on: Sep 09, 2018

• I am very saddened to hear of Janis`s passing. I spent many an hour with Janis as kids at the beach. You couldn't ask for a better friend. Mrs. Lamb, Bart and Cindy I offer my deepest sympathy and love. Margaret (Shier) Martens Lot 50 - Posted by: Margaret (Shier) Martens (Friend Neighbor at West Hawk Lake) on: Aug 17, 2015

• I was so shocked and saddened by the news that Janis was gone. I had the privilege of working with and running into her many times over the years, most recently when she was substitute teaching at Robertson School. She we always so friendly, positive and cheerful. She was kind to the students and had a great sense of humour about all the crazy things that go on all day at school. I believe she lived a happy life. I'm glad I knew her and I will miss her. My sympathy to her family - Posted by: Pam Peden (colleague) on: Aug 05, 2015

• Mark, I was so sorry to hear your news when I ran into you at the Zoo. Though I never had the pleasure of meeting Janis, I can see by the tributes here what a special person she was - seldom in reading these messages in obits are there ever more than a handful of such glowing tributes. It will be hard for you to face each day for quite some time, but it is clear that you have strong support from friends, including myself. - Posted by: Roberta Beach () on: Jul 23, 2015

• i remember Janis from junior high, but didn't really know her until we were both teachers. At one in-service we had lunch together and I was astounded what a totally lovely person she was. When I mentioned Janis' name to my wife that night, Lori laughed and said she knew Janis as well. She related stories of her friendliness, depth, and competence. We just returned from a vacation and, unfortunately, missed her life celebration. We hope these words offer some condolence to her family. - Posted by: Bruce Christie (Friend) on: Jul 23, 2015

• Janis was the kind of person we would all like to have as a friend. She never let you feel bad about anything. Her smile and laughter were infectious. She was just a great human being and we will miss her dearly. She will always be remembered by the Thursday night Rowdies. We love you Janis. - Posted by: Firoze Mohammed (Bowling comrade) on: Jul 22, 2015

• As the School Social Worker at Andrew Mynarski, I had the great privilege of working quite closely with Janis during this past school year. She had big shoes to fill, covering the previous guidance counsellor's maternity leave, but she rose to the occasion beautifully. Each day, I watched in awe as Janis poured her all into every aspect of the job. Her warm, kind and sometimes mischievous smile greeted every person daily (staff and students alike) taking the time to make each person she encountered feel special. The job of a guidance counsellor in a junior high school can be very challenging as young students turn to you with life challenges as they develop their individuality, and Janis didn't shy away from any of it. She dove in head first, reaching out to students and families with heart and soul to provide the support and guidance needed. If an issue came up that Janis wasn't sure of, she would consult with me or the others from the clinical support team looking for guidance and resources, and would then forge ahead without hesitation. Janis had a wonderful way with students, and was able to get even the quietest ones to open up to her and accept help. Janis also shared her own life stories, often talking about her dear husband, her three beautiful daughters and the pride she had in being a grandmother. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to meet her and work with her so closely this school year. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her family as they grieve her passing. - Posted by: Susan Gravel (Colleague from Andrew Mynarski)) on: Jul 22, 2015

• It was a Blessing to have Met Janis and her Husband and her Children My Heart and condolences and thoughts to the Family R.I.P. Janis your smile and Presences will be missed always - Posted by: Greg Coy (Friend) on: Jul 20, 2015

• Jan, You have been my steadfast and loyal best friend for six decades - and will remain so. Your optimism, honesty, and down-to-earth advice have helped me on countless occasions. We, our families, and our very street have grown up together. So many memories...waiting impatiently for you to finish practising the piano so that we could go to the playground. We walked to school together and were in the same classrooms. We discovered boys together and went on double dates. There were long, hot summer days where we sunned, swam, and got into mischief at Westhawk Lake. We had a taste of the Old World when we tripped our way through Europe and Africa with Ellen, our best friend. The three of us have had many laughs recounting our adventures of those innocent times. The last reunion of all of us involved a trip to Niagara Falls, a very special time to get "caught up" with each others' lives. I have fond memories of my recent visits to Winnipeg, where we ate, danced, talked, and laughed. To Mark, Christine, Tanya, Carol, Bart, Cynthia: my heart goes out to you. The sadness that we share may transform into strength in time, as I imagine Jan would want. - Posted by: Renie Sadlier-Brown (friend) on: Jul 18, 2015

• I spent many special occasions with Janis as she was very close with my sister and brother-in-law (his cousin). I will never forget how she was always the one to start the singing of Christmas Carols! Her happy spirit was contagious! Janis, I know I will feel your absence this Christmas and many occasions to come, but I know you will be with us all in our minds and hearts. Til we meet again... - Posted by: Shelley Lambert (Friend and cousin of my brother in law) on: Jul 17, 2015

• I had the pleasure of travelling to New York City with Jan in September. What a vibrant, happy woman to be with. It was an honor to know her. My condolences to the family. Claudia Eisbrenner - Posted by: Claudia Eisbrenner (friend) on: Jul 17, 2015

• I had the true pleasure of spending time with Janis on a few special occasions, and although these occasions weren't numerous, they were certainly memorable. It is not at all surprising to read so many wonderful tributes about the impact she had on so many. She was the kind of person who although you might have just met, instantly made you feel at ease and welcome. Janis was not only incredibly easy to talk to, but a true pleasure when you had the opportunity to do so. To her family: may the incredible memories you have of your life with her, along with the support you find here among so many she touched, bring you some comfort. We all know that she was very, very special. - Posted by: Debbie MacLean (Extended family) on: Jul 15, 2015

• I've thought of Miss Lamb many times over the 35 years since she taught me first grade. My fondest memory being when I accidentally called her "Mommy" while trying to get her attention. While my cheeks burned in embarrassment, she swept me into a hug and kissed the top of my head. My memories of her warmth, humour, grace and kindness have not faded with time. I'm so pleased to read these stories from those who knew her better than I, to know that it's not nostalgia, she really was a most remarkable person. - Posted by: Carrie (Evans) Lund (Student) on: Jul 15, 2015

• I am sorry for your loss, I still can't believe Ms Lamb is gone, I will miss her so much, she was such a wonderful and caring person that is full of energy, she would ask me if I already ate and she would always make sure that I'm okay, she was my guidance councillor and she honestly helped me solve my problems, she was there to help me when I didn't know how to handle things, I'm very thankful I have met her, although we weren't really that close but we still made memories and I know I will forever cherish them, she's one of my track coaches, and she would always make sure to have snacks for people who doesn't have food, she helped me with my hurdles practices and I'm very thankful for that, because if I have never met her I would have never probably learned to be this strong, she would tell me about her stories when she was a teenager, she would give me rides for my volleyball and basketball games, she was very helpful and I don't think I can ever thank her enough for that. She wasn't just a teacher at Andrew Mynarski, she was also my friend. I will miss you ms Lamb!!!! Thanks for all the granola bars!!!! AND ALL THE ADVICE YOU GAVE ME!!! I'LL MISS YOU SO MUCH!! YOU'RE IN A SAFE PLACE NOW. ANDREW MYNARSKI LOVES YOU!!<33 - Posted by: Gwen Ascano (Student ) on: Jul 14, 2015

• Dear Janis, may you rest in peace! Your life has ended all to soon & your vivacious personality, generous heart, & compassion is so going to be missed. You were one of my 'city cousins' that I most enjoyed spending time with when we were young. You taught me to appreciate the Beatles & it only took 30 years for me to love their music as much as you did when we were teenagers! I will cherish my memories of you forever & am confident you are in the care of Jesus along with your dad & my mom & dad! Luv you cuz - Teri 😍 - Posted by: Teri Wylde (cousin) on: Jul 14, 2015

• Words can't express the sadness I felt in hearing of Jan's passing. Janis was special beyond words and will be terribly missed by everyone who's life she has touched. I will always remember her caring ways and her sense of humor. My heart goes out to Mark, Tanya, Christine and all of the family. She love you all very much. - Posted by: Charlene Coy (Friend) on: Jul 14, 2015

• It is with profound sorrow for all those that mourn Janis' passing that I wish to express. There are few in my life that I have met that are so pure of heart, kind,and gentle. It was truly a shock to hear of her illness and subsequent passing. She will be sorely missed. My condolences go out to Caroline, Cynthia, Bart, and to Janis' husband and children, and their children. - Posted by: Stytch (Former Cousin in law) on: Jul 13, 2015

• Janis was my sister. Her private life and public life were not that different. I couldn't have had a better sister. I was a pest in younger years and followed her around on her outings, she never was mean or shooed me away. She was my mentor, and I wanted to grow up fast to catch up with her and do the things she was doing. We had a lot in common but yet very different. She seemed to effortlessly make time for her co workers, friends and family. As a younger adult if Jan hosted a party I was almost always invited. She didn't like leaving anyone out. I have lived in Edmonton for almost 20 years and Jan found the time and money to visit me often. We always enjoyed one another's company, enjoyed long walks, confided in one another, we were both shopping fanatics and she had excellent taste and was very selective with what she purchased. We sent each other parcels over the years and I was always stoked to receive a gift from Jan. I also visited her several times when Jan and her family were in Tucson and I came back to Wpg for family visits. I couldn't get enough time with my sister. She loved nicknames and she created many for me; I was know as Kink, Kidney Ann, Kidney Pie, Twisted Sista, Ma Soeur and Skidmark (that is not what it sounds like) and occasionally called me Crash Lamb which a close neighbor had named me after several innocent car accidents. I called Jan; Janos, Yani, Twisted Sista, Soui. There was only one area where we clashed and that was time. I was a much more anxious person than Jan and at several points prior to Jan and Mark being married, Jan & cohabitated briefly several times. I drove her mad with my messy somewhat unpredictable lifestyle, while Jan methodical and slow speed got me riled. So we agreed that I should make the meals and Jan could plod along afterwards and clean up my mess. She always seemed to be appreciative of my cooking ( I chalked this up to her having a hardy appetite). One thing I never learned was when we shared a bed during our visits, Jan started the conversation and I would listen intently, and when it was my turn Jan would be sound asleep. I never did speak first. Jan was a person who didn't mind following some of my suggestions for taking classes. For many years, just like clockwork I would have an overwhelming desire, come fall, to take a class and Jan was always game. However we never did seem to see the different courses through to fruition. We took Car Mechanics for Women, Self Defense for Women, Tai Chi, Contemporary Dance,and Aerobics. Much to my surprise and the other students Jan was like a machine in Self Defense when it came to boxing like strikes. Her aim was spot on and her arms were like pistons in rapid succession she pounded into the glove of the instructor. We both struggled with Tai Chi as we both had a challenges remembering the 103 moves. Through Jan I met many of her school friends that she stayed in touch with over the years. I love you Jan very much and was sorry that I didn't have the opportunity to say goodbye to you in the manner that I felt appropriate. You were the "Wind Beneath my Wings" I will think of you often and love you deeply and don't want to say goodbye. You were one of the best people I could have possibly known in my life. Your Sister, Cynthia - Posted by: Cynthia Lamb (Younger sister) on: Jul 13, 2015

• I had the honour and privilege of coaching with Janis during her time at Andrew Mynarski VC School. When Janis was asked to help out with the track and field team at the beginning of the year, she said yes without a moment of hesitation and for that, I am thankful. I will never forget the day Janis walked into my classroom for our very first practice, the kids fell in love with her almost immediately. Her smile, her laughter, her kindness and her generosity were a few of the amazing qualities that she showed on a daily basis and the reason why kids gravitated to her. Ms. Lamb. I am grateful and honoured that I had the opportunity to not only work with you but also get to know you in the short time that you were at Andrew Mynarski. Thank you for saying yes to coaching track. Thank you for always being there for me when I needed an extra hand or set of eyes. Thank you for sharing all those wonderful stories about your family and beautiful grand children. Thank you for teaching me the importance of love and laughter. Thank you for the wonderful, random, surprise candies you always put in my mailbox. You will forever be missed. My deepest condolence goes out to Mark and Janis’ family. May she rest in peace. - Posted by: Brian Lien (co-worker at AMVC) on: Jul 13, 2015

• I have known beautiful Jan for most of my life. Words cannot express how sad I feel at her loss. My heartfelt condolences to her loved ones. - Posted by: Debbie Nielsen (Long-time friend) on: Jul 13, 2015

• Janis Lamb was indeed, welcoming, inclusive, accepting, and understanding. I was lucky to have shared a few experiences in our high school days, and the encouraging and supportive impact she had on me was something I recall with ease. In our last conversation, a couple of years ago, I felt her acceptance and love of life. Her smile, and her eyes said so much...about her attitude towards living and treating all with kindness, and gentleness. My wish for her family is to know that Janis touched many lives, with love and caring, which was genuine, and certainly heartfelt. Remember her as a very good soul. - Posted by: Duncan Michie (High school connection) on: Jul 12, 2015

• Best friends for 51 years! For now, no words come to me, only feelings. You were such a constant in my life. I will keep you in my heart forever but can’t help wishing you were still here to talk to just one more time. Mark, Tanya, Christine, Carol, Bart and Cynthia, I think of you often and hope the strength you have, individually and as a family, will carry you through. Family was top priority for Jan and I know she would want us all to do the best we can with our lives. I know she wanted that for her daughters as this was one of the last serious chats we had before she passed. - Posted by: Ellen Gray (Friend) on: Jul 12, 2015

• I had the privilege of working with Janis this past year at Andrew Mynarski School and found her to be one of the most kind and giving persons to everyone she met. Janis was someone you could very easily talk to and who displayed compassion with great ease. As do so many others, I feel blessed that our life paths had met. My deepest sympathy to her family and friends who feel her loss. - Posted by: George Nyman (Colleague) on: Jul 12, 2015

• Our deepest condolences to Mark and the girls and to Jan's family. We loved Jan very much and will always remember the good times with her and Mark. The Zoo parties especially over the last 35 years or so. The dinners we would have together were always full of laughs. Jan was a very special, caring, beautiful woman with a beautiful soul. I remember our girls playing together and our chats over the years. We cannot believe she is gone and the world is a much sadder place without her now. We will miss her greatly. We love you Jan, rest in peace. - Posted by: Toni & Robert Kostyra (Friend) on: Jul 12, 2015

• I offer Mark and family my peace and blessings. Jan will be missed in our Thursday night league. She was a very bright light in our group. - Posted by: Cynthia (Park Alleys friend) on: Jul 12, 2015

• I Can't even believe that Ms. Lamb is gone, She would always ask me if I'm hungry every track event and she would always push me over my limit to be a better track athlete and she would always ask how I'm doing every time she seen me in the hallway. You will be missed Ms. lamb and especially how you treated us students and I'm pretty sure everyone will miss your smile. RIP MS. LAMB, you will forever be missed. - Posted by: Charles Asis (Student ) on: Jul 12, 2015

• I taught with Janis in our first years of teaching at Weston School. What a loving and caring person. We taught together again just a few years ago at Principal Sparling School. She still had that beautiful smile! My deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: June Pospishell ((co-worker)) on: Jul 11, 2015

• This all happened so fast. I can't believe you have left this earth. Somehow I will keep you close to me. I see you in every positive experience. I will miss our walks, and heart felt conversations. I promise to be the best parent I can be for Felix, and follow in your footsteps. So that one day at the time of my passing, I may know the love and many friendships as you have. Your life was meaningful beyond words, the lives you touched, and the dedication to help others. I hope to carry on with me in your honor. It still hurts, don't worry mom, Christine and I will take care of dad and carry on our family traditions. With you always TanyaFaye - Posted by: Tanya Faye (Daughter) on: Jul 11, 2015

• I had the great pleasure of working with Janis at Sargent Park School. She was a great guest teacher in our nursery room. The children always loved the fact that she used to bring a stuffed lamb with her so that the children would remember her name. She will be greatly missed and i feel deeply lucky and honored for having met and worked with her. - Posted by: Tanna Motuz-Chambers (Co-worker) on: Jul 11, 2015

• I had the pleasure of working with Janis at Sargent Park School. She was a great guest teacher in our nursery room. The children really used to love the fact fact that she would bring a little stuffed lamb so the children would remember her name.She will be greatly missed and i feel lucky for having to have met her. - Posted by: Tanna Motuz-Chambers (Co-worker from Sargent Park School) on: Jul 11, 2015

• Ms. Lamb came to Andrew Mynarski to cover for our guidance counsellor who was on maternity leave, personally I just thought she would just be a regular counsellor but she turned out to be a very kind hearted lady. Throughout most of her days at work, she would circle the building arranging stuff for certain individuals sometimes she even went beyond what the individual intended, We got to bond over track meets and track practices and she was very kind to have always supplied us with food such as water,granola bars,and oranges. I admire her not only because of her work ethic, but also of her very positive attitude towards others,once she had mentioned to me her daughters and how proud she is of both of them, I have only met her grandson Gavin, but I can say he and Felix really make her smile. Not a day would pass that Ms.Lamb was ever sad,grumpy or in a bad mood because as she had mentioned before, "I love kids, I love being around them especially my two grandsons Felix and Gavin" Althouh you are not with us anymore, I still do hope you continue to watch over us and I would like to say thank you very much for your kindness and patience with us, we will forever keep ur advices in mind as well as the memories you have left with us. Rest in Peace Ms.Lamb. I miss you, my deepest condolences goes out to the Lamb family as well as their extended relatives and friends. - Posted by: Mitzi Mendoza (Student ) on: Jul 11, 2015

• Janis was a very kind and loving person.I enjoyed our "chit chats" after school. I still can't believe that one minute I remember you running with the students .The next minute you are gone .Life is not fair sometimes.I am going to miss that smile.My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Melody Zakowich (Co-worker) on: Jul 11, 2015

• Janice you were such a ray of sunshine. I can't think of any time when anyone around you wasn't smiling or feeling good. You were a special person and it was a privilege to be your friend. I will miss you. - Posted by: Burton Lysecki (bowling pal) on: Jul 10, 2015

• Janis served as our school counselor for the past school year. We were fortunate to find a warm, caring individual to help our students at Andrew Mynarski. Janis and i spoke about her first visit to our school and meeting our Admin team.I thought I was interviewing her for the position and she actually said she was interviewing us, we both laughed and today I am thankful we passed her test. Andrew Mynarski is a better place because Janis Lamb spent time and worked with our families. She will be missed. Our deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Greg Bouchard (Principal at Andrew Mynarski) on: Jul 10, 2015

• Ms. Lamb was a very fun, sweet and caring guidance councillor. Although I've only known her for a few months, my AMVC grade 8 experience wouldn't have been the same without her. I had the opportunity to have her as my track and field coach, and let me tell you this.. she's one of the MOST SUPPORTIVE teachers out there. Whenever I or some of my team mates had an event, she'd always get there before to tell you that we'll do great and she'll cheer you on no matter what place you got. She also was like a loving grandma to a lot of us, she'd ask you if you were hungry and how were we feeling, I remember during the season she'd ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAAAAAYS bring food for you to eat, usually a granola bar, an orange or sometimes maple fudge! She never looked like there was anything wrong.. she constantly had a big smile on her face making jokes with us. I also thought that she was very healthy because we would jog for practice 3 times a week for track, and she never stopped in between to take a break, and a lot of us did.. Even though she took it slow and steady, she was persistent, constantly encouraging others to push harder and endure.. Kind of like how she was her last few days.. Everyone that knew her definitely knew that she cared for us dearly, and so do we. We are all very lucky that we had someone like Ms. Lamb in our lives. Prayers go out to her family and friends, rest in peace Ms. Janis Lamb. - Posted by: Jadalyn Estrada (Student) on: Jul 09, 2015

• We have only known Mrs. Lamb for a single year but within that year she has taught and inspired us all so much. There wasn't a day she would pass anyone in the halls without smiling and waving. She had encuraged us to preform better in any aspect of our lives whether that was to achieve our academic goal, music, athletic's or simply our goals in life. What she had taugh us all will surely make a difference in our lives. She had always asked me personally how I was doing and always assured me and everyone else that her office is always open for us if we needed anything and I wish I had the chance to ask her how she was doing for once. It truly upsets me that I did not get to say goodbye or atleast say thank you and in behalf of AMVC thank you Mrs. Lamb. You will not be forgotten especially not by me. Rest in paradise. - Posted by: AMVC student body (Student) on: Jul 09, 2015

• Ms. Lamb was my guidance Councillor for my last year in Andrew Mynarski School. She was always there to help me when ever i was in trouble or just needed someone to talk to. She was one of the best guidance Councillor I could have ever met she was a very fit person she loved to hang out with the students and she always asked me during track meets if I was Hungary and offered me a fruit bar but I would always ask thanks ms Lamb and take it. MS.LAMB YOU WHERE THE BEST GUIDANCE COUNCILLOR I have EVER MET R.I.P MS.LAMB I WILL miss you and same with all the grade 9`s going into grade 10. - Posted by: adam firman (student) on: Jul 09, 2015

• Ms Lamb is really sweet, caring, happy, greatful, chill person. I didnt really see in her that she had problems, always smile in her face whenever i see her in the hallway, she always greet the students and she is very welcoming! RIP Ms.Lamb. God has plans for you!!!!! You will never be forgetten. - Posted by: Miguel Leano (Student) on: Jul 08, 2015

• Ms.Lamb was my guidance counsellor for my last year in Andrew Mynarski School. She was there to help me and guide me through that very stressful year for me. As a student she was like a caring grandmother that always asked me if I was hungry. Thus she always gave me and other students oranges and granola bars. Ms.Lamb was very caring to everyone and I'll miss her very much. I will forever be greatful for the help and care that she has given me and the students of our school. I will always remember her as someone anyone can go to when in need of someone to talk to. I remember her listening to my problems for hours and she would always be understanding. Ms.Lamb will forever be in our hearts and prayers goes out to her family and friends. We are all very lucky to have had someone like Ms.Lamb in our lives. - Posted by: Bea Basaran (Student) on: Jul 08, 2015

• I feel very fortunate to have known and worked with Janis. We only worked together a few months. She always embraced the opportunity around people to be kind, caring and thoughtful. She had a tremendous impact on the students and staff at Andrew Mynarski VC. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends at this time. Darren Pritchard (Teacher), Andrew Mynarski VC - Posted by: Darren Pritchard (Co-worker) on: Jul 08, 2015

• Dear Family...wishing you so much love during this very sad time. I had the fortunate opportunity to know and love Jan. She was an amazing FRIEND who always had a beautiful smile and cute little giggle. She just had such a special way in making people feel happy and all was good with the world when you were with Jan. A few years ago...Jan and I went Ziplining with my niece and nephew...because of her very petite build...she was not able to make it across one of the gorges...400 below her and she hanging on a cord, just dangling...we laughed so hard it was embarrassing...the Zip Master(or whatever you call them)had to send out a line to pull her in...waaay to much fun! I also had the opportunity to be a part of a coffee group on Saturday mornings...Gosh I looked forward to those...enjoying our coffees, croissants, sandwiches...and then just maybe we'd end up at Winners for just an hour(NOT!...it was more like 2 hours)Jan would very meticulously going through each rack or just the right fashion ware. Oh yes and what would an outing like this be without going to Value Village...yes indeed. I was truly very fortunate to have spent an hour with you while you were in the hospital...we chatted very quietly...and even then you had such a positive, happy outlook...one of the last things you said to me was: I don't think I'll be able to make it to Italy with you but you need to go and have a GREAT time and tell me all about it...I wont have to Jan you will b e there with me :) Thank You Jan...I love you and always will...I will miss you dearly. Caroline xoxox - Posted by: Caroline Cantafio (Friend) on: Jul 07, 2015