Janet Lou (Sawyer) Conjalka

Janet Lou Conjalka, affectionately known as Janet to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2024, at the age of 86 in her hometown of La Porte, Indiana. Born on October 26, 1937, in La Porte to the late John and Doris (Orsborn) Sawyer, Janet's life was one marked by devotion to her family, a passion for simple pleasures, and a legacy of kindness that touched all who knew her.

Janet's life was woven together with love and companionship when she married the love of her life, Rudolph C. Conjalka, on March 7, 1956. Their union was blessed with laughter, shared dreams, and three daughters. Rudy predeceased her on July 29, 2009, she was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter Pamela Conjalka.

She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia Marovich and her husband Tom of Nokomis, Florida, and Peggy Malstaff and her husband Mark of La Porte, Indiana. Janet's joy was multiplied through her grandchildren, Megan (Bryan) Hycner, Matthew (Brooke) Marovich, and Paige (Cody Grott) Vernallis. Her great-grandchildren, Lee, Hunter, Audrey, Charlotte, Ella, and Carter, brought her immeasurable happiness. Janet is also survived by her sisters, Joyce (Ted) Szawara and Joan (Dave) Luther, both of La Porte, Indiana, who will remember her lovingly.

Throughout her life, Janet embraced the role of homemaker with a passion that extended beyond her own household. Her culinary skills were legendary within her circle, particularly her potato salad and an array of pies and desserts that were the highlight of many gatherings. Janet's love for Amish cooking, especially chicken and mashed potatoes, was well-known, and her presence was a staple at the weekly card games with her sisters and cousins where they shared their love for candy and the monthly bingo sessions. She found joy and camaraderie in dining with the "Out to Lunch Bunch," where her laughter and stories will be dearly missed.

Janet's faith was an important aspect of her life, and she was a former member of St. Joseph Church in La Porte. Her commitment to her faith and community was evident in the way she lived her life and in the love she shared with those around her.

As we say goodbye to Janet Lou Conjalka, we celebrate the life of a woman who was the heart of her family, a beacon of warmth in her community, and a cherished friend to many. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, and her spirit will forever be a part of the lives she touched.

Visitation for Janet will be held from 9AM to 11AM on Monday, June 24, 2024, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, LaPorte, Indiana. A Memorial service will follow the visitation at 11AM in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Boys Town, www.boystown.org, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, Riley Children's Hospital, www.rileychildrens.org, or American Cancer Society (Breast Cancer), www.cancer.org.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Janetl’s life or leave a message of comfort for her family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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