JANISSE, Dolores On July 15, 1933 a beautiful child was born to Maria Merkowski and Fr. Conrad Meyer in Winnipeg, MB. Dolores would be raised by her “mum,” Maria’s sister, Clara Tetzlaff, and husband Andy on a farm on the Saskatchewan prairie until she was nine years old. Her mother Maria then took her to live at the rectory and to finish her education.
Upon graduating from University, she began teaching in schools in Saskatchewan and Alberta and then moved to Ontario where she met her husband to be, Raymond Janisse, who predeceased her in 2010. She, along with Ray, created a beautiful family of four boys. John (Chris), James (Heather), Charles (Mary) and Joseph (Leanne) continue their life journeys with talent and grace assisted by the guidance of both Ray and Dolores. Dolores and Ray also had many grandchildren whom they loved dearly; Miranda, Jack, Tristan, Julian, Larayna and Bennett. Her brother Otto has predeceased her, along with sister Clara and brothers Norman, Otto, Andy, Ray and Norbert, while brothers Herbert and Larry will miss her. One of Dolores’ proud achievements was discovering her father’s family in Metzing, France. Determined to meet them, she bravely journeyed to France and was so loved that she would return several times.
Dolores lived a full life in Windsor as a teacher at St. Anne High School, an active member and liturgist at her church, and an avid gardener. Faith, family, friends, and building relationships have all been a central part of her life. For over 30 years, she hosted an annual gathering on Boxing Day, a tradition that spoke to her generous and loving spirit. In recent years, since Dolores moved to Amica, she was fortunate to be able to connect with Ron Sturba who has been her constant and faithful companion. Ron has become an important presence in our family and always will be.
We are grateful to the Dr. Bob Kemp Hospice, who opened their arms to care for her as her earthly journey ended, on March 7, 2019.
Dolores was an amazing woman with a unique story. She was forthright, courageous, outspoken, and magnanimous. Dolores’ actions and character touched many people. What she created in life will last long beyond her earthly presence. We know that she lives on both in the mysterious eternity and in our lives on Earth.
We will celebrate Dolores’ life at the Water’s Edge Event Centre, 2879 Riverside Drive East, Windsor ON from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, April 5th. It will be an evening of song, stories, prayer, refreshment and hospitality – honouring the love that Dolores engendered in all of us. EVERYONE is welcome. On Saturday, April 6th at 10:30 a.m., a Eucharist honouring her new life will be celebrated at St. Anne’s Church – 12233 Tecumseh Road East, Windsor. Her ashes will be interred at St. Anne’s cemetery immediately afterward.
Dolores was never happier than when all her children were together. In remembrance of her and in lieu of flowers or a donation, we ask that you take time to celebrate with your family.