Marlene M. Janata

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of our extraordinary mother, grandmother and aunt, Marlene Elaine Motis Janata. Marlene died one week shy of her 88th birthday on Friday, August 7, 2020 surrounded by her family. Marlene was born in Oak Park, IL on August 15th, 1932, the daughter of Frank and Ella Motis (nee Svoboda). She attended Morton East High school and was a member of the synchronized swim team, performing numerous solos and receiving the Outstanding Female Sports Award her senior year. Marlene's dream was to travel the world as part of Esther Williams swim troupe; however, she met a handsome lifeguard at the pool and fell in love with her husband of 67 years, Charles R. Janata. They married on February 17, 1951 and lived in Cicero for many years before moving to Hillside, IL. where Charles was Chief of Police, eventually retiring to Boulder Junction, WI. Marlene worked at Hotpoint while Charles was in the service. In later years she worked at Morton East High School as the secretary to the Athletic Director and then in the school nurse’s office. Once her children were in college, Marlene entered Real Estate sales in Westchester, IL. Always a people person, she enjoyed helping people find their dream homes. Marlene’s greatest joys were traveling with Charles in their motorhome to visit their children and see the country, dancing with her husband, roller skating, and spending time with family at Trout Lake, WI where she and Charles had a home since 1978. Marlene continued to love water sports, practicing water ballet throughout her life, and slalom skiing into her 70’s. She collected recipe books and recipes, loved all animals, especially her small white dog, Snow. Marlene is survived by daughter Lynn Janata Tremblay, of Clyde Hill, WA, son Kenneth C. Janata (Nancy) of Windermere, FL, four adored grandchildren, Andre-Philippe Tremblay, Justin-Pierre Tremblay, Jacob Charles Janata, and Sutton Elizabeth Janata, sister-in-law Joan Janata, niece Kimberlyn Janata Bell and nephew Scott Janata. Marlene is preceded in death by her husband Charles R. Janata (2018), her son Ronald F. Janata (2008), and her parents, Frank and Ella Motis. We are forever grateful for the care provided by the Ascension Hospice nurses and aides in Woodruff, as well as the physicians and staff at Marshfield Clinic in Minocqua. A celebration of life will be held in the future. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

Marlene M. Janata

August 15, 1932 - August 7, 2020