Josephine Marie (Rulli) Janik

Josephine Janik, 86, beloved mother, and a beacon of love and dedication to her family and community, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2024, in Salem, Ohio. Born at home on March 3, 1938, on her mother's birthday in Youngstown, Ohio, Josephine's life journey was one of devotion, service, and joy. She was a woman whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Josephine was the beloved daughter of the late Nicola and Dale (Giannini) Rulli. Jo worked at her families grocery store (which is where she met her husband and light of her life) from a very young age until her retirement. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Raymond M. Janik, whom she married on September 7, 1959, and passed on September 6, 2018, her infant sister Catherine, her sister Mary (Jim) Carano, her brother Anthony Rulli and her son in law Rob Coler. Her spirit is carried on by her loving daughter Lori Coler of Canfield, her son Michael Janik of Salem, her adored granddaughter Christina (Ryan Tunison) Coler of Boardman, her sisters Angela Rulli and Marian Parish, her brother Nick (LuAnn) Rulli, a sister in law Karen Rulli and nieces and nephews.

A member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Canfield, Josephine's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. Her commitment to the church spanned over five decades, a testament to her unwavering belief and the strength she drew from her community of faith.

Josephine's zest for life was evident in her varied interests and her involvement in her community. Known affectionately as the "Cookie Lady" by many, her cooking and baking skills brought joy to countless gatherings and family dinners. Her gardens were a canvas of color and life, reflecting her love for beauty and growth. Her artistic talents extended to painting, where she captured the world as she saw it, with vibrancy and passion.

Her dedication to nurturing future generations shone through her long-time role as a 4-H advisor and as a co-founder of the Greenford Happy Helpers. Josephine's caring nature and commitment to service were also reflected in her time with the ladies' auxiliary of the Green Township Fire Department.

As a member of the American Jersey Association, Jo's connection to agriculture was profound. She exhibited dairy cattle at the Canfield Fair for over 50 years, sharing her knowledge and love for the industry with all who crossed her path. Her involvement with the Giving Tree Committee further highlighted her generous spirit and her desire to ensure that no one was left without joy during the holiday season.

Josephine's life was a rich tapestry of love, service, and community. She believed in the power of hard work, the importance of family, and the joy of giving. Her legacy is not only in the fields she tended, the cookies she baked, or the paintings she created, but in the hearts of those she touched. Her laughter, her wisdom, and her nurturing presence will be deeply missed, yet forever remembered.

Josephine's life will be celebrated in a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Michael Catholic Church in Canfield, on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Friends and family may sign the guest register and send condolences online at www.brownfhonline.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Salem, Ohio (330) 337-6363.