Janet Findlay WILLIAMS

Janet passed away peacefully, after a short illness, surrounded by her pets, Jackson, Remi, Niko & China, lifelong friends, and extended family. She was predeceased by her parents, Walter & Janet Stewart; husband, Allan Williams; life partner, Leo Gaudreault; brother, Glenn; adopted Uncle, Jim Harvey (Scotland).   She is survived by foster son Randy Oliwa (Catherine, Miranda, Hunter & Lachlan), and stepdaughter, Lisa Gaudreault (Kaylam & Anthony).

Janet was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. She moved to Port Alberni where she lived her life of 68 years with a passion for all kinds of animals, horses, dogs and cats, and raised show dogs. She won many championships and awards for showing her Boxer Breed and later went on to show Whippets.

Janet married the love of her life, Allan, and together they formed an incredible life filled with all her favourite things, animals, Harleys, airplanes, (yes, Al was a pilot) but most of all her life was overflowing with amazing friendships. Janet worked in retail and enjoyed spending time in the community she loved dearly. Unfortunately, Al was taken too soon, and Janet became a young widow.

As time passed by, Janet met Leo Gaudreault, and they formed an incredible bond, moving in together and purchasing a new home.  Soon after, Leo was blessed with a beautiful grandson and together with Janet’s support, they jumped right into grandparenting.  They spend many weekends together building memories surrounded by family and friends. In 2014, tragedy struck again, and Janet was once again a widow.

Throughout her remaining years, Janet was fortunate to have many strong relationships with good friends. Many stayed close to her and continued to visit or just drop by to vent to her as she was an amazing confidante. Janet always seemed to know just the right thing to say. Her advice was always blunt, and to the point. She spoke the truth and had so many “old wives’ tales” and historical Scottish sayings that would somehow always suit the “topic” or “situation” that was being discussed. 

Her ability to manage and maintain her home and large property all alone was simply outstanding. She relied on no one and was 100% self-sufficient until most recently. She never asked for help, and it was hard for her to accept that yes, she now needed help.

As Janet fell ill, her closest family and friends formed a care team, literally overnight. The outpouring of support was overwhelming for her. She was absolutely blown away by the efforts of her care team. Janet would like to thank everyone involved over the last few months. The Dr’s, nurses, support workers, the hospital teams, and Yates Funeral Home, were all just amazing. She would like to mention, her lifetime friends, Nancy and Larry Doucette, the best neighbours anyone could every ask for, Tanya & Ron Tardiff, Leslie Beaudoin, Lisa Gaudreault, and Randy & Catherine Oliwa for all the love, caring, and laughs right up to the end.

Janet requested no formal service, but there will be a gathering “an open house” of friends and family at her home on May 13, 2023 from noon to 3 pm.