My wife, Bernie, and I first met janet and Satish when they came to live next door in Bath in the mid-sixties. Both families had little money and small chilldren and we soon formed a bond that was to last until the present. Many happy memories from this period include the marvellous annual Guy Falkes Bonfires, fireworks and BBQ events which Janet and Bernie organised so effectively for much of the neighborhood.
Both families moved on to varoius different addresses after leaving Bath but they finally settled in Stockport and us in Letchworth. But throughout we remained closely in touch, sharing many visits and holidays. During their early years in Stockport, my brother,, Eric, who was a bachelor with some serious health issues, was frequently invited to the Mehta home and to functions at their various clubs. This greatly eased the pain of his later years, the last few with cancer, and I am immensely grateful for the care and compassion shown to him by Janet during this period.
This close bond continued after Bernie died in 2013 and Otti, who had looked after her so well during her last days, stayed on to look after me. Perhaps I might share some moments from a few more recent encounters. One was Janet and Satish's visit to Otti's small and basic house on the Danube near Budapest. Despite not speaking a word of Hungarian, she managed to form very good relations with several friends and neighbours through the interest and friendliness she showed to all. Another shared experience was on a small sailing yaught visiting the beautiful islands off the coast of Croatia just 2 years ago. Janet was, by this time, very much suffering from her cancer but was determined to make the most of the cruise and took part in many activities.
Many have spoken of Janet's compassion, competence, industry, fortitude and love of family. I can only say that we have witnessed all of these characteristics in abundance and many more. She was a woman in a million who will be missed immensely and hearts go out to Satish and all his family.
Guy
20th August 2020
I've been very lucky to have two wonderful and caring aunties from Dad's side of the family. I will remember Janet for being kind, caring and thoughtful. Always welcoming and cooking delicious treats for whenever we visited or she was up in Ousby, and when we were younger in Wales. I will think of her often with warm and happy memories. Lots of love, Thea
Thea
10th August 2020
Janet offered great kindness and practical support to John and I in the years when the children were small. They arrived at the house in Ousby with casseroles and pies - all gratefully received and enjoyed. Janet was always gracious, a listener who didn't push her opinion forward but, when she offered a view, it was an insightful and thoughtful one. She was one of our group called 'the aunties' - there were a few in the extended family - always thought of with affection and appreciation. We have lots of family stories of time with Janet in Stockport, Wales and Cumbria. Happy memories of days out and meals shared.
When we spoke about our work in healthcare, we shared opinions and hopes for improvement to the system. She was self-evidently devoted to her work to make things better for individuals, teams and organisations.
Clearly she was much respected and will be missed by a wide community of people whose lives are better because we knew her.
With love to Satish and all your family, Fiona
Fiona
2nd August 2020