Mary Teresa Janik

Mary T. (Okscin) Janik passed away on November 23, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. Mary was born on January 29, 1953, in Chicopee, MA, where she attended school, raised her family, and worked until retirement. She was married to her devoted husband, Robert A. Janik, for 49 years, building a life filled with love, family, and laughter. Mary was the heart of our family. We loved her beyond words, and her kindness, humor, and compassion will stay with us forever.

Mary leaves behind her two sons: Brian R. Janik of Brick, New Jersey, his wife Jacqueline, and their two children, Nathaniel and Madeline; and Gregory A. Janik of South Hadley, his wife Tracy, and their son Kaleb. Nothing made Mary happier than being “Mimi,” and her love for Nathaniel, Madeline, and Kaleb was boundless. Mary is also survived by her sister, Laurie Gibbons, her partner John Cassidy, and her nephew Justin and niece Erin, all of whom she adored. Mary was predeceased by her parents, John and Annette Okscin.

Throughout her career, Mary worked with dedication as the librarian at St. Stanislaus School, and later as the school’s secretary at Bellamy Middle School for twenty-two years. While raising her two sons, she could often be found volunteering at school events and cheering from the sidelines at countless sporting activities.

After retirement, Mary and Bob moved to Cape Cod, where she continued her life of service and joy. She spent her time drinking tea, volunteering at the Cape Cod Wildlife Center, and, for many years, with the Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises. Every Monday during the season, Mary could be found photographing her favorite whales and sharing her knowledge with visitors about the incredible wildlife they encountered. She also loved tending her garden and caring for the plants and animals that surrounded her Cape Cod home.

Mary’s family will hold a Celebration of Life at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave, Gate 1, West Springfield on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Family and friends, come and celebrate Mary’s life from 12–3 p.m.

She will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and the deep love she gave to everyone fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Brigham and Women’s Hospital’s Cancer Center in Mary’s memory. https://give.brighamandwomens.org