Janelle Gordon

A wonderful woman to know and love, Janelle Gordon filled the lives of those around her with immeasurable joy. Janelle was a lady through and through. She carried herself with class, poise, and most importantly, grace. Ever loving, Janelle was just as caring and compassionate as she was faithful to all who knew and loved her. Deeply cherished during her time here on earth, she is now a treasure in heaven to be remembered forevermore.

Life was infinitely changed for America in 1941 with the attack on Pearl Harbor. As countless young servicemen and women were sent overseas, women entered the work force in droves. World War II was news of the day, and much was being done on the home front for the war effort. While manufacturing changed its primary focus to the needs of war, those back home freed their minds from everyday worries as the entertainment industry made great strides. Yet in the bustling city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Marlin and Dorothy (McCleery) Conner experienced some changes of their own when on December 7, 1941 they welcomed the birth of their little girl whom they lovingly named, Janelle.

One of two children in the Conner household, Janelle grew up alongside her sister, Marlene in Whitley County where she remained a lifetime resident. From her earliest years, Janelles sweet smile and likable nature found her enjoying the friendships of many. Like all young girls who grew up during the 1950s, she was into the latest fads, fashions, and music. She attended the local schools, and went on to graduate from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1960.

Early in her working career, Janelle landed a job as a telephone operator at United Telephone. After that, she married and was a stay at home mom for 12 years where she became the loving and devoted mother of two wonderful children, Michelle and Marla. She then began working as a secretary at Indiana Die Molding. Her greatest joy, Janelles children were the light in her life. She was a deeply dedicated mother. As a talented seamstress, Janelle loved to sew and made all of her childrens clothing when they were young.

Love was not lost for Janelle. In time she came to know a gentleman by the name of Wayne Gordon who completely stole her heart. On April 27, 1990, the two were happily married at Columbia City United Methodist Church. Making a new life together as husband and wife, Janelle gained two step-children Bradley and Tammy. She made a good and loving home for all her family. Janelle was a great cook and enjoyed making anything, especially comfort food. She was known for her delicious chicken and noodles most often requested for family gatherings, and it never mattered what she made, Janelle made enough to feed an army, particularly during the holidays!

Along with her love for sewing, Janelle truly enjoyed working in her flower gardens. She loved the beauty around her which filled her heart with much contentment. With ways all her own, Janelle was a very inviting hostess. All were welcome to her home and table, especially during the holidays. And so very typical of Janelle, her kindness was unmatched. She was compassionate towards the needs of others, and she never ceased in offering a shoulder to lean on or a welcoming hug.

Janelle continued working at Indiana Die Molding until her retirement in 2001. She loved being at home and spending more time with her grandchildren whom she dearly loved. Her love for animals was near and dear to Janelles heart, too. Her two canine companions and cat kept her busy and she considered them part of the family.

Although Janelle enjoyed watching the Indianapolis Colts as a supportive fan, she really liked Payton Manning, even after he went on to play for the Denver Broncos. Janelles favorite movie of all time was On Golden Pond. She also loved watching Dancing with the Stars with all the glitz and glamour. Quite a class act herself, Janelle absolutely loved fashion and make-up. She always took good care of herself and she kept up with the latest trends. She dressed well, and always looked amazing.

Janelle delighted all with her generous and caring nature. Her heart of gold was clearly evident through her compassionate nature, and her loving ways were felt by anyone who came to know her. A devoted wife, dedicated and loving mother and grandmother, Janelles genuine, sweet smile will continue to be reflected in the love of her family. Deeply missed, she will be remembered with joy.

Janelle Gordon, age 74, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 8:07 a.m. on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at her residence. Survivors include her loving husband of 25 years, Wayne Gordon of Columbia City; children: Michelle (Robert) Judd and Marla (Doug) Fahl, both of Columbia City, Bradley (Melissa) Gordon of Huntington, and Tammy (Randy) Kingray of Shepherdsville, KY; nine grandchildren; one great-grandson and one on the way. Janelle was preceded in death by her parents, Marlin and Dorothy Conner and by her sister, Marlene Rice.

Friends may call on Sunday, January 24, 2016 from 1-5 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services for Janelle will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 25, 2016 at the funeral home with Certified Funeral Celebrant Sharon Brockhaus officiating. Burial will follow in Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial contributions in memory of Janelle may be made to the Humane Society of Whitley County.