Janet Rose Gonzales

Janet Rose Gonzales (Saragossa) passed away on November 10th, 2021, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on April 6th, 1961, in Joliet, IL to her parents, John and Joan Saragossa, Janet was a lifetime resident of Joliet and Crest Hill, IL. A graduate of Joliet East High School, class of ’79, Janet was a mother to five children, whom she loved dearly. Janet was an avid traveler and loved to take her kids on vacations of all sorts spending most summers on road and camping trips, with no end date in mind. She enjoyed the adventure of experiencing something or somewhere new. When at home, Janet’s house was never empty. Whether she was gardening, molding clay, painting, making jewelry, or cleaning house she always welcomed family and friends to join her. Janet’s magnetic personality and joy for life always drew people in. Her family was not limited to blood, it extended far beyond. Whether it was just to chat for a while, to get life advice, or to stay a little longer, Janet welcomed many people to her home. She was a mother figure to many; her doors were always open and there was never a dull moment (or layer of clothing).

To say Janet was a hard worker is too simply put. She worked hard and sincerely enjoyed it. A member of the IBEW, Janet dedicated 31 years to the power plant NRG, Romeoville location, where she started as a station laborer and working her way up to being a Unit Operator. She talked highly of her job and coworkers and took pride in the work she did.

Janet survived by her children Richard (Krista) Salvatore, James (Sarah) Salvatore, Kristy Legerski, George Sikic, Kortney (Will) Sikic; her granddaughter Irene; and her sisters and brothers, June (Bob) Saragossa, John Saragossa, James (Hope) Saragossa, and Judy (Rick) Chaffin. She also survived by her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and cherished friends.

Janet preceded in death by her parents John and Joan Saragossa, her sister Julie, brother Jerry, and sister in-law Cindy.

Although Janet endured a long journey with breast cancer, she did not let it define her. Thank you to the Block Center in Skokie and all the healthcare professionals whose care allowed Janet to share as much time as was possible with those she loved. A special thanks to Lightways Hospice for their wonderful care and compassion during her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lightways Joliet Area Community Hospice.

Janet will be missed dearly by her family and friends who may take solace in knowing that her memory will live on through us, her art and photographs, and the lingering light she left behind.

The family will receive relatives and friends for a visitation on Thursday, November 18, 2021 from 3:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet.  A chapel service will be held the following day, Friday, November 19, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. at Tezak Funeral Home with burial to follow at St. Mary Nativity Cemetery in Crest Hill, IL.