James Louis Janosky
Obituary
James Louis Janosky December 23, 1939 – June 25, 2024
James Louis Janosky, affectionately known as Jim, was born on December 23, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, to parents Louis Janosky and Mary B. (Radetic) Janosky. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, sister, Mary Louise (Janosky) Godfrey, her husband, Thomas Godfrey, and their son, Michael. Jim shared a wonderful life with his beloved wife, Dolores Jean Heggie, whom he married on July 30, 1960, and affectionately called Dodi. Together, they raised three daughters: Joy Hofmeister, Jill Easley, and Gina Scott, who blessed him with loving sons-in-law Gerald Hofmeister, Steve Easley, and Kelly Scott.
Jim's legacy extends through his grandchildren: Louis Hofmeister and his wife Britta, Katherine (Hofmeister) Christian and her husband Samuel, Elizabeth (Hofmeister) Asplin and her husband Steven, James Hofmeister, Nathan Scott, Kristin Scott, Katelyn Stevens, and Ainsley Stevens-Easley. He was also a proud great-grandfather to four little blessings: Wilhelmina and Genevieve Hofmeister, Kennedy Asplin, and George Christian. His family circle included his niece, Dana Godfrey, and her children, Tessa, Anna, and Taylor, and his nephews, Michael Godfrey (deceased) and Philip Godfrey, along with Philip's wife Patricia and their son Alex and daughter-in-law, Eden.
Jim's life was guided by his faith from a young age, which he embraced at church camp and gave his life to Christ. The Scriptures teach us that our lives are a journey or race meant to be run. On Tuesday, June 25, Jim crossed the finish line at his home in Claremore, Oklahoma, with his loving wife and three daughters surrounding him. “He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.”
Jim and Dodi’s love story began in high school and spanned 64 beautiful years, filled with respect, fun, and daily acts of love. Jim was known for surprising Dodi with flowers and serenading her with made-up songs to familiar tunes in the morning. He took care of her with tender gestures, like turning down her bed every night. He thought of Dodi from sunrise to sunset.
After being diagnosed with stage four cancer, Jim expressed immense gratitude for his life, claiming he had lived the lives of five men. His life was rich, characterized by hard work, strong family ties, lasting friendships, and adventurous pursuits. He lived his faith by quietly helping others, often without their knowledge. He also embodied what he called “silent winning.” He enjoyed staying connected with his loved ones, was always interested in their lives, and was eager for updates on their latest pursuits. He loved to hear when something wasn’t working and loved to offer help; in fact, he was troubleshooting and problem-solving even in his last days in hospice care.
Jim's life was filled with diverse accomplishments: a state champion diver, undefeated football player, photographer, electrician, US Army champion marksman, national salesman, deacon, entrepreneur, steel engineering and manufacturer, pilot, school board member, river rafter, international fisherman, philanthropist, a supporter of Israel and missionaries, world traveler, woodworker, artisan, collector, inventor, and provider. He was a Renaissance man who cherished the beauty of a sunset, was as strong as an ox, and even had his own dental tools for the “just-in-case” dental emergency, which he could perform on himself or the willing.
Jim's memory will be cherished by all who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and dedication. He leaves a legacy of belief in the potential of others, boundless curiosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends.
We love you, James Louis Janosky. You finished the race triumphantly, and your legacy lives on in the hearts of those you touched.
The family wishes to acknowledge Seasons Hospice for their exceptional care.
Events
Tributes & Memories
I had the pleasure of meeting Jim after we had moved into the quiet neighborhood of Timberlake where he and his lovely wife Delores live. We instantly became friends, and I had the privilege to sit and talk with him and got to listen to him relive some of his fondest memories. Jim was full of life, always there with a good story for inspiration, a new idea, solutions to a problem, and unending faith. Having lost my dad many years ago, he became like a second father to me, a welcome blessing that will forever be with me and my family. Having only known him for a few short years, I can't imagine the impact he had on those he knew and loved most throughout his life. With his passing, there is a relief knowing he is not suffering anymore. It was an honor knowing and meeting him and his wife, Delores, and he will be truly missed. We send our condolences and prayers to his family and pray that he is at rest at home with our Lord.
Pete Harrison
I knew Jim tangentially through Jerry and Joy Hofmeister, his daughter and son-in-law, for about 30 years. Over that time, I was greatly impressed with his manly qualities, his gift for conversation and his affection for his family. He also loved an irreverent joke and had good stories of his military service that indicated a zest for enjoying even the most unenviable circumstances. I was sad to hear of his illness and passing but I am proud of him, and the remarkable life he led. I, my wife Stephanie and our daughters Claire and Vivian send our most respectful and heartfelt condolences to Jims family and friends.
Tom Milburn
Heartfelt condolences to all of Jim's family. We were lucky enough to be neighbors of Jim and Dodi. They are such a loving, giving, compassionate, and kind family. I admired how he protected and loved his precious Dodi. I could see God's light in Jim's eyes the last time I saw him a week before he went to Heaven. He is now your cheerleader cheering you on to Victory. May God hold all you in the palm of his hand until your are with your cherished Jim again.
Tim,Anita,Brandon,Krystina Walker
Lit a candle in memory of James Louis Janosky
Anita Walker and Family