October 13, 2021
Janet died peacefully at home on October 13 surrounded by family. She was diagnosed in May with ALS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Born in Vancouver, the youngest of four daughters to Leonard and Helen Thorson, Janet was proud of her Icelandic heritage. She is survived by her husband Brian, daughters Hallie and Emma, sisters Pat, Sue (Hugh) and Elaine, and nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, whom she loved dearly.
Janet was a newspaper woman throughout her career, first as a reporter, then editor. In 1986 she became the first editor of the Courtenay-Comox Valley Record. She worked as a copy editor at the Province Newspaper in Vancouver for 25 years until her retirement.
Janet returned to the Comox Valley with Brian in 2015 where she enjoyed hiking, canoeing, and walking on the beaches with cherished friends, neighbours and family. She tended her beautiful garden overlooking the ocean in their dream home.
She loved music, especially Bach, and enjoyed her time as a cellist with the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra and with a five-woman group of cellists. She was grateful for her time with cello teacher Helena Jung.
Janet expressed her gratitude for Sue Rodriquez, who had ALS and fought for the right of Canadians to die with dignity. The family is grateful to the ALS Centre team in Vancouver, the incredible support from the ALS Society of BC and the entire health care team in the Comox Valley. Special thanks to Occupational Therapist Carmen Handley who was a kind and caring support and advocate for Janet.
Plans for a memorial service will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Society of BC, the Comox Valley Food Bank or your choice of charity.