Janet D Contre

Janet Diana Contre, known affectionately as Memere, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2023, at the age of 92 in Sandwich, MA. She was born on January 4, 1931, in Woonsocket, RI, to her parents Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Lafond. She was the beloved wife of the late Leon E. Contre with whom she shared 61 years of marriage.

Janet is survived by her children Diane Card and her late husband Robert, Dennis Contre and his wife Diane, Linda Dupuis and her husband Richard, Lise Bishop and her husband Roger, Donna Long and her partner Donnie, Donald Contre and his wife Karen, and Doreen McKean and her husband Thomas. She is also survived by her 14 grandchildren Brian Dupuis and his wife Tracy, Jonathan Contre and his wife Sheryl, Justin Contre and his wife Amy, Daniel Dupuis, Stephanie Corcoran and her husband Charles, Alan Bishop and partner Amanda, Ashley Bishop, Wesley Long and his partner Catherine, Evan Long, Christopher Contre and his wife Amanda, Jared Contre and his wife Lindsey, Matthew McKean and his wife Hannah, Nicholas McKean, and Lauren McKean. Janet is further survived by her 12 great-grandchildren, as well as her brothers Leo Lafond and his wife Sandy, Robert Lafond and his wife Diane, and sisters Lucille, Arline Richard and her husband Albert, Claire Berard and her husband Eugene.

Janet was a remarkable woman who never met someone she didn't like. With a quick smile, bright eyes, and a kind word for all, she brought joy to everyone she encountered. She dedicated much of her energy to raising her family alongside her beloved husband, Mr. Leon E. Contre. Together, they had seven children, who in turn blessed them with 14 grandchildren and, at the time of her passing, 12 great-grandchildren.

In her early career, Janet worked as a seamstress at Garland Knitting Mills in Brocton, MA. Her attention to detail and pride in her work ethic propelled her to rise through the ranks, eventually becoming an overall inspector-supervisor. Her expertise in sewing and took pride in sharing her knowledge with others. Additionally, she worked part-time at Stop and Shop on Cape Cod, where she quickly became a beloved employee known for her warm greetings and engaging conversations with customers.

Janet was a woman of faith and a member of St. Francis Xavier in Hyannis, MA. Her spirituality was an important aspect of her life, providing her with strength and guidance.

In her leisure time, Janet enjoyed a wide array of hobbies. She had a passion for travel, embracing new experiences and creating cherished memories. Dancing was another beloved activity of hers, both in her youth with her husband Leon and later in life through group line dancing. She loved sewing for her children and enjoyed making beautiful quilts. Janet also found solace and fulfillment in crocheting shawls for charity.

A wake is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, from 4-7 pm at Doane, Beal & Ames, 160 W. Main St., Hyannis, MA 02601. A Catholic mass will be held on November 2, 2023 at 11:30 AM at Our Lady of Victory Church, 230 S. Main St., Centerville, MA 02632, followed by a burial at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA.

Janet Contre's love, kindness, and warm spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory be a blessing to us all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice Services of MA, 10 Riverside Dr., Lakeville, MA 02347. Your contribution will honor Janet’s legacy of compassion and care.