Erris Louise MacDonald Janko

Our beloved Erris, born December 4, 1947, in Sparta, Wisconsin to Frank & Rita MacDonald, passed away suddenly on June 5, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and fiery spirit that will never be forgotten.

Erris lived life with strength, heart, and an unmistakable spark. She spent 28 years as an executive secretary at the Emory hospital, where she kept everything running smoothly and did it all with a sharp mind and even sharper wit. She was hardworking and proud to be a provider—never one to hold back, always one to give her all.

For twenty beautiful years, she was married to her sweetheart Michael Janko, until his sudden passing. They were a perfect pair—equal parts humor, loyalty, and shared fishing adventures. Together, they built a life full of memories and unconditional love.

Erris’s days were full of simple joys. She found peace in her garden, happiness walking her beloved dog, and absolute bliss at the beach. She never missed a chance to cast a line and fish, especially when it meant spending time with her treasured son and his fiancé Emily, who brought light and laughter to her later years. And every evening, without fail, she made time for her favorite anchor—David Muir. She watched him like clockwork; with the same dedication she gave to everything else in her life.

Erris was strong, opinionated, and a firecracker in every sense of the word. She said what she meant, meant what she said, and loved with every ounce of her being. She was a great mom—selfless, loving, funny, and real. Her presence lit up the room, and her absence leaves a space impossible to fill.

Erris is survived by her son, Charles “Meyer” Janko & Emily; sister, Barbara Broughton & John; and her faithful companion, Sippi. Erris, is preceded in death by her husband, Michael Janko.

While her passing was sudden, her life was anything but ordinary. Erris gave everything she had to everyone she loved, and we are all better for having known her.

She will be missed deeply, remembered fondly, and celebrated forever.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Erris’s name to PAWS Atlanta at https://www.pawsatlanta.org/