Obituary of James Louis Janosky
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.
Ninde Funeral | Mosaic Cremation | 918-742-5556