Janet Mary Lopata

Born on October 31, 1943, in Youngstown, Ohio. She had one sibling, who was her beloved twin sister Maggie Jones, and spent her childhood in Southern California. Janet later married Bud Thompson, who preceded her in death in 2008.

Janet is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Kimberly Thompson Texidor, and son-in-law, Gerardo Texidor; her stepdaughter, Kimberlee Macdonald; and her daughter, Julie Wilkin, who was raised by her adoptive family. She was a proud grandmother to Lizzie Stacks, Julia Stacks, Krystal Carrion, Owen Macdonald, Kodi Macdonald, and Jacob Wilkins, and a devoted great-grandmother to Justin and Katie. She also shared a special bond with her niece, Jamie Byrnes, and Jamie's family—Randy, Caitlin, and Brittany—as well as her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jerry and Joanne Thompson, and niece, Sherrie. Janet also leaves behind many treasured friends, especially in Arizona and Florida, whose lives were enriched by her kindness, warmth, and unwavering friendship.

Janet had a lifelong love for animals. She managed Park Your Bark, a kennel in Van Nuys, California, where she combined her passion for animal care with her gift for connecting with people. She was active in the dog show community and generously volunteered with Greyhound Pets of America, fostering and adopting many retired racing greyhounds. She also adored her beloved cats, Night Night and Pretty Boy, who brought her great joy.

A true trailblazer, Janet was an accomplished barrel racer before beginning a successful career as a professional truck driver. She made history as the first female truck driver west of the Mississippi to drive double trailers, breaking barriers in a traditionally male profession with determination and courage. After retiring from trucking, she worked for many years as an office assistant for a mortgage company, where she was appreciated for her dedication and friendly spirit.

Janet will be remembered for her generous heart, quick wit, genuine spirit, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. Whether caring for animals, spending time with family and friends, or sharing a laugh, she lived a life marked by compassion, resilience, and love. Her memory will be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and she will be deeply missed.