Saturday, February 23, 2008

Janet's Obituary

DENNIS Janet Victoria (Thring) September 25, 1952 to February 20, 2008, died peacefully at home holding her husband, Mark's hand and surrounded by her loving family after a short courageous struggle with ovarian cancer. Janet always retained her zest for life despite the many challenges posed by her disease. The final phase of her life was eased by the unconditional love and support of her large circle of friends, especially her support team, TELUS management and employees, family and soulmate Mark.

Janet was born to Cy and Ruth Thring (Sinclair) in Yakima, Washington, USA. Shortly after Janet's birth, the Thring family moved to Cy's native Vancouver where Janet grew up with her two sisters Daphne and Marilyn. Janet joined BCTEL in 1970 and worked there until her retirement from TELUS in February 2008. Janet was a unique and special person whose vibrant, fun loving and vivacious personality, outstanding fashion sense, quick wit, contagious laughter and giant smile brightened many a day and endeared her to all. She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her. While we are sad for what never will be, we are grateful for what we have had. Janet was truly a gift who has left her imprint upon our souls.

The family appreciates the efforts and skills of her physicians, Dr. Jones her family doctor of 32 years, Drs. Stuart and Lam of the Burnaby General Cancer Clinic, and the assistance and expertise of the Three Bridges Community Health Centre Pallative Care Team, especially Dr. Anne Hansson and nurses Wanda and Jivan.

A memorial service honouring Janet's rich life will be held Monday March 3rd, 2008 at the Shaughnessy Heights United Church at 1:00 pm, 1550 W. 33rd. Vancouver, light refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name to the National Ovarian Cancer Association are appreciated. Envelopes will be available at the service. Janet may be watching ... pick your shoes carefully!

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Dear Mark:
It is a beautiful Saturday afternoon,even more appreciated by reading the reflective words in Janet's obituary. God Bless Janet, God Bless you , Marilyn and all those close to Janet.I will wear my best pumps on March 3rd .With appreciation for showing us how to love so deeply ...Valerie Archer

Unknown said...

Janet will like the "shoes" theme on March 3. Please let us know if you need help with anything, Mark.

Anonymous said...

Our deepest sympathy to you, Mark…
Although we have never met you, and we were only once fortunate enough to meet Janet, reading all the comments made by your and Janet's many friends on the blog has painted such a beautiful portrait of your sweet wife and has given us marvelous insight into the beautiful, inspiring person she was. What we remember most about Janet from our brief meeting last year are her fabulous smile and her very quickly apparent wit. I remember saying that I was looking forward to getting to know her better. Sadly, the opportunity didn’t come, but Janet was someone I’m sure we would have felt blessed to know. The love of the many good friends in your lives and the love of your families are there for you now to give you strength and support in these next difficult days to come. Take care of yourself, Mark, and remember, what the heart has known, nothing can take away.
Mikki & Donn Lawrence (JoAnne Thring’s daughter and son-in-law)

Anonymous said...

Dear Mark - It was with great sadness that I heard the news about Janet. I consider myself fortunate to have met and worked with Janet -- her beautiful, big smile truly did light up the room! I will look back fondly on the "good 'ole days" and keep those lovely memories close at heart.
My deepest sympathy,
Sonia Becker

Anonymous said...

Dear Mark, Beautiful obituary - reading it made me so grateful that such a wonderful, beautiful woman and such a deep, timeless love have been part of my dear friend's life. You have truly become the man I always knew my best high school buddy would become. I'm so proud of you and so very sorry for your loss. Sandy

Anonymous said...

Her Smile, Her Fashion Sense, but most of all the Sparkle in her Eyes when she greated you. These things I will treasure the most about Janet. With deepest empathy, Michael Wong

Anonymous said...

Dear Mark,
My deepest sympathies to you for the loss of your beautiful Janet. I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Janet's passing. I am on mat leave and had no idea that she was ill. Janet was a wonderful woman and she will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Sincerely yours, Shanna Gottfried