Janice Willette

Janice Alfreda Willette, 70 yrs, of Medicine Hat, Alberta, passed away on April 1, 2026 at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Her scrappy nature was on full display as she fought until the very end with many of her loved ones by her side.

Born on July 10, 1955 in Estevan, Saskatchewan, Janice was the daughter of Alfred and Shirley Willette, and the second oldest of seven children. She always felt privileged to have grown up in the close knit, loving family she was surrounded by.

After her high school years, Janice worked various jobs for several years before heading back to college to make a better life for her and her young son. She was then employed by the Government of Alberta for 38 years until her retirement in 2020.

Janice was a championship calibre 10-pin bowler in her younger years, attending the Amateur World Championships in 1987 in Orlando, Florida, a feat she took great pride in. She was also a fierce competitor as a back catcher for softball teams around Medicine Hat for several years.

Janice’s enormous love and dedication to those closest to her will always be remembered by the ones blessed to have received it. She was truly a pillar of support within the family, and was always there for them with unending loyalty and compassion. Her calming presence will be dearly missed.

Janice is survived by her partner of 31 years, Ian Abraham; her son, Christopher (Tamari) Willette; grandchildren, Shayna (Cole Kauppi) Willette and Creed Willette; as well as one great grandchild, Oslo Kauppi. Janice will be forever missed by her siblings Michelle, Barry, Duane, Denise, Kurtiss, and Kevin; as well as her many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by both her loving parents; and her daughter, Chantelle Ann, in infancy.

Always someone who didn’t want anyone making a “fuss” over her, Janice has requested that no funeral service be held for her. Her wish was to be cremated and then laid to rest beside her parents. A small private ceremony will be held at a later date to fulfill her last request.

Arrangements are under the care of Grace Memorial, Medicine Hat.

“Death is not extinguishing the light. It is putting out the lamp because dawn has come."

Goodbye, mama. Say hi to everyone for us and enjoy your next life. We’ll miss you, but you can relax now…we’ll be alright.

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