On July 5, 2020 Mary Janus succumbed to a battle with Cancer. She fought with vigor and gusto, never loosing her faith in God nor her love for her Family, and Friends.
Mary was born on September 18, 1962 in Elmhurst Il. She was the last of seven children to Calvin and Rosemary Janus. She was the apple of her Parents eye as she was the only girl. Mary started life in Northlake Il and at age 7 moved to Iowa. Her love of music started in the early years of her life as music was a part of her family.
In Iowa she lived in Laurens and Albert City, attending College at Briar Cliff in Sioux City. She loved playing softball, and she loved riding horses and doing Dog Obedience with Julie. Mary and Julie maintained a life long friendship. It was at Briar Cliff that Mary met Sister Mary Arnold who had some of the greatest influence on Mary’s life. Sister taught her to play the guitar and instilled in her the love of ministry.
After College, Mary moved to the Los Angeles area where she remained. Mary worked for The Boy Scouts, and then in the insurance industry for many years. While working she also began singing music at St Catherine’s of Sienna (Reseda) and it was there that Harmonia came to life. Mary would travel with Harmonia to other parishes sharing gods word through music. The group became known and was invited to participate in Regional Religious conferences eventually getting asked to participate in Los Angeles Archdiocese RE Congress. She became very active in that organization growing in her responsibilities in her 20 plus years of service. She also served at Our Lady of Peace (Van Nuys ) and served 20 Years at Our Lady Of Lourdes in Northridge in various rolls.
Mary loved to live the word of God in both her actions and deeds. The testimonies of so many share the story of how Mary would befriend, encourage, mentor, praise and recruit people to share music to spread peace and love. She has a strong legacy of countless Musicians, Music Ministers, Clergy and people who she touched with her energy and her love of God.
Mary is survived by her Partner Brenda Smith and her brothers Eddie, Kevin, Brian, Jeff, Aaron and Mark. Nephews and Nieces Joseph, Caleb, Allan, Heather, Katie, Andy, Bradly, and Kyle. Great Nieces and Nephews, Mark, Ashlyn, Ethan, Chloe, and Liliana. As well as many Family and Friends.
Mary was proceeded in death by her Parents.
A Vigil will be held Friday July 10th at 7:00 PM. Her Funeral Mass and Celebration of her life will be at 10:30 AM on Saturday July 11,2020. Due to the pandemic, the mass will be by invitation. The mass will be presented online. To remotely view the service, please log onto ollnr.weconnect.com.
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