Janet (Schaff) Parker
1942-2009
Janet (Schaaf) Parker, born May 30,1942 in Seattle, moved peacefully from this world on Nov. 12, 2009, while surrounded by family and friends.
Janet is survived by her brother, Jerry Schaaf of Union; his wife, Molly; her daughter Erin (Anderson) Enlow of Dutch Harbor, Alaska; son-in-law Tom; her granddaughters Kelly and Carlin; her grandsons TJ, Ben and Ross; also by her lifelong friend and chosen sister Alice Markewitz of Gig Harbor; and her very special “other daughter” Teri Erickson of Seattle.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Hazel C. Schaaf; and father Harold K. Schaaf.
Janet attended high school in Aberdeen where she also raised her daughter while working for a local law firm for 23 years. Janet relocated to Seattle in 1994 to pursue new career opportunities.
She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in early 1997. As challenging as her treatment of this disease was, it opened new doors for her professionaly and brought her many wonderful new and lasting friendships. Janet began volunteering in the oncology area at the UW Medicical Center in Seattle and later was hired as a Program Coordinator overseeing programs and activities for cancer patients and their families. She continued in this role up until her passing. Janet’s passion and deep caring for those with cancer was evident in her work and benefited all those she served and helped through her work.
So many friends and family showed up when their presence was needed, this resulted in Janet being surrounded by her loving friends on a daily basis. This was the best medicine of all. In her final weeks she was cared for by her daughter and friends as well as Hospice, which made it possible for Janet to have a peaceful passing without having to leave her much-loved home.
In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcomed in Janet’s name to Providence Hospice of Seattle, 425 Pontius Ave. N., Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98109.
A gathering to honor and celebrate Janet’s part in each of our lives is planned for Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at Gilda’s Club of Seattle, 1400 Broadway, Seattle. A reception will begin at 3 p.m. with the memorial service at 4 p.m.
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