Janice "Jannie" Ball

Janice Ball, mother of Kevin Bobczynski, passed away peacefully at LaVerendrye Hospital on Good Friday, April 19, 2019. She will be dearly missed by son Kevin and daughter-in-law Elizabeth, her sisters, Linda Bisson (Robert), Donna Rawluk (Cal), and her brother Richard (Nancy). She was affectionately known as Granny Jannie to her loving grandchildren, Layla, Rae and Hudson. Jannie is also remembered by her many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins and many friends. Twyla Howarth and Josie McLeod were Jannie’s constant companions from early childhood. The love and support the three of them were to each other was nothing short of amazing.

Jannie was predeceased by her father Donald Ball in 1982 and her mother Elsie in 2009.

Jannie faced the challenges in her life with a positive attitude and good humor that was truly an inspiration to everyone. She insisted that in spite of her failing health, she be allowed to live on her terms, and in her own home. She was able to accomplish that goal with the support of an amazing team of home care workers over the last 20 years. These caring people became Jannie’s friends, who loved her and provided the care and assistance she needed to continue living independently. This wonderful group of women and men will be her honorary pallbearers.

Jannie had an enthusiasm for life. She loved her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse at LaVerendrye Hospital and although it has been many years since she has been able to work, many of her coworkers still maintained their friendship with her. Jannie enjoyed being an active member of the Nils Board for many years, as well as Knox United Church and the Fort Frances MS Society Self Help Group.

Prior to her challenges living with MS, Jannie was a passionate and adventurous traveler. She traveled to Florida, Las Vegas, climbed Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, parasailed in Mexico, downhill skied in Banff, and snorkeled in Hawaii.

Friends and family are invited to a service of celebration of Jannie’s life to be held at Green Funeral Home in Fort Frances, Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 11 a.m. Pastor Brian Keffer will officiate. A private interment service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to the MS Society of Canada, c/o Green Funeral Home, PO Box 427, Fort Frances, Ontario P9A 3M8 or to a charity of your choice.

Never let the hard times take away your soul.

Keep your feet on the ground.

In gentleness lies your strength,

And keep a bit of humility in your pocket.

It will come in handy.

Rita MacNeil