Janice G. Van Zant, 86, of Akron, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at home on Monday, Sept. 11, 2017.
Born in Albany, N.Y., on July 12, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Norman and Wanda (Dobrowolski) Martin. Janice was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years: G. Paul Van Zant; and two sons: David Van Zant and Allen Van Zant.
Surviving Janice are four adoring children: James Van Zant (Janet) of New Freedom; Susan Colbert (Donald) of Perrineville, N.J.; Patricia Koontz (William) of Reading; and Cheri Van Zant of Akron; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and her faithful little Sheltie, Hannah.
Janice grew up in Rutland, Vt., and attended the University of Vermont as a pre-med student. She concluded her working career with 14 years at Fulton Bank following her retirement from retail sales at Sears for 34 years.
Janice was an active member of Hope United Methodist Church in Ephrata, where she was the treasurer for the church and her Sunday school class for many years. An avid reader, American history captured her interest, as did the Bible. She sought an active lifestyle and enjoyed knitting as well as participating in the church’s Bible study groups, playing pinochle, and socializing with the many dear friends and incredible neighbors who blessed her life.
Her talent for baking extraordinary pies delighted all who were lucky enough to feast upon them. A devoted fan of the Phillies, Eagles, and Penn State, she could always be found in her cheerful sunroom watching the games and overlooking her beloved backyard and birds. Though she remained in Pennsylvania, her love for Vermont continued and she traveled there often. However, her love and devotion to her family were unrivaled. The true example of unconditional love and unwavering strength, Janice will be dearly missed by the many whose lives she touched.
A celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 30, at Hope United Methodist Church, 3474 Rothsville Road, Ephrata. Fellowship and refreshments will follow in the church’s Fellowship Hall. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Janice’s name may be sent to Hope United Methodist Church, 3474 Rothsville Road, Ephrata, PA 17522; or to the Abramson Cancer Center Immunotherapy Research, at .pennmedicine.org/cancer/giving.
To offer online condolences, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata, assisted Janice’s family with the arrangements.
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