Janet was born on February 3, 1962, to Betty and Scotty Malone. After the tragic death of her father, Janet formed a special bond with her stepfather, Pete Wleczyk, who entered her life as a teenager.
Janet had a bold and vibrant personality. She was the glue of the family. Not the quiet kind, but the kind that showed up with enough food to feed an army and made sure everyone was hugged whether they liked it or not. She gave advice whether you asked for it or not, and more often than not, she was right. If you knew her, you knew where she stood and if you didn’t, she’d tell you. She loved deeply, laughed loudly, and made everyone feel valued and welcome. She was always available to help in any situation, no matter the time or distance.
She married the love of her life, Dennis, on December 12, 1986. Together, they raised two children, Gar and Chelsey. Her eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren knew her as “Nana,” the one who let them stay up too late, went on the best adventures, and never missed a birthday or moment to brag about them. She was also affectionately known as “Aunt Janet” to many, some who were not even relatives. Her heart was just that big, with enough room for everyone.
Janet is survived by her loving husband, Dennis Gohlke; children Garett “Gar” Gohlke (Brooke), Chelsey Clevenger (Ryan), and stepchildren Dale Gohlke (Marquita) and Denise Haertl (Russell); her 11 beloved grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; step-father, Pete Wleczyk, Jr.; her siblings Dale Malone, Mike Malone (Carol), Lainie Stevens (Randy), and Chad Wleczyk (Courtney); countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were like family.
She is reunited in spirit with her mother Betty Wleczyk, father Scotty Malone, and sister Debbie Malone.
A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Tuesday July 15, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Seadrift, Texas.
Janet didn’t just live life, she lit it up. Although she may be gone, her spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched.
