Janet Lee Yates, age 77 of Falls Creek, PA died Friday, December 29, 2023, at her home.
Born on February 19, 1946, in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Catherine (White) Yates.
Janet received an undergraduate degree in Latin and Biology from Montclair State University, NJ, and a Master’s Degree in counseling from the University of Bridgeport, CT. She held certifications from the National Board of Certified Counselors and the Pennsylvania Counselor Certification Board.
Janet began her career at Penn State DuBois in 1969. She held positions in financial aid and student affairs over her 35-year career at the campus. Upon retirement on September 1, 2004, she served as the Assistant Director of Student Affairs. Janet was an advocate for community support and responsible citizenship and served as the Director of Camp Confidence in her early career, and served on various boards and committees for the City of DuBois and Clearfield County throughout her long career.
Janet was an ardent supporter of the arts and obtained annual tickets for the Pittsburgh Ballet and Symphony. She always invited others to join her and was known to be particularly fond of the Nutcracker Ballet, which she attended most every year. She also enjoyed the Ligonier Highland Games that promoted and preserved Scottish arts and heritage and her visits to Scotland to visit her relatives. Being a lifelong learner, she traveled to Spain with Penn State students, faculty, and staff to experience a new and different cultural opportunity.
Janet cared deeply for animals including her pet dogs throughout her life. Her stories of their antics entertained her friends on numerous occasions. She was known for her exquisite sense of humor that reflected her Scottish heritage and perspective on life. Her kindness to friends, family, and all others was her hallmark.
She was a lifetime member of the American Association of University Women Non-profit organization officially founded in 1881, that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. Janet was also a member of the DuBois Nursing Home and the Penn Highlands Hospital Boards for many years.
Janet loved her two cousins Beth White Picciano and Janet Murray Grimsland, both of NJ, and their children, all of whom she loved visiting during the holidays.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 12:00 PM from the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. with Pastor Terry Felt officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to the Gateway Humane Society, PO Box 678 Falls Creek, PA 15840.
Online condolences can be sent to www.baronickfuneralhome.com.
