Mary M. Janes

Mary M. Janes, 73, passed away unexpectedly at 2:15 PM Wednesday, January 7, 2009, in Ligonier.

She was born May 13, 1935, to Ray and Leah (Summers) Shell. She was a lifetime area resident.

She graduated from South Bend Memorial School of Nursing in 1956 and went on to serve in the nursing profession for more than 52 years, performing duties spanning from a surgical nurse to a home health care nurse. She also worked for many years as an office nurse for Dr. Hooker and Dr. Waterfall.

She was a 1953 graduate of Ligonier High School and an incredible athlete where she excelled in basketball and softball. She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Ligonier and was an avid Notre Dame fan.

She married H.T. "Sonny" Janes on January 14, 1967. He preceded her in death February 17, 1995.

Her survivors include six children, David W. (Pamela) Alles, Ligonier, Catherine Alles (Chris) Muesing, Greenwood, Lisa (Schlene) Janes, Syracuse, Thomas E. (Tammy) Janes, Ligonier, Marcia B. (Glen) Hicks, and Anita B. (Jim) Cassidy, Cromwell; 13 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a brother, Richard Shell.

Friends may call Friday from 2 to 8 PM at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Services will take place Saturday at 11 AM at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Ligonier. The Rev. Wilson Corzo will lead the service.

Pallbearers will be Samuel Muesing, Jace Morgan, Douglas Alles, Tyler Alles, Andrew Janes, Clay Preston, Drew Preston, Scott Hicks and Clay Hicks. Burial will be in Oak Park Cemetery, Ligonier.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sister of St. Francis of Assisi, the Humane Society of the United States or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.