Janet Lynn Kanelos

KANELOS, JANET LYNN
68, died on September 21, at home after a brave 15 month battle with pancreatic cancer. She leaves her husband Dr. Theodore Kanelos and two sons, Dr. Peter (Brigit) Kanelos and Alexander (Alyssa) Kanelos.
Janet was born and raised in Warwick by the late Charles and Jean (Tuttle) Palmer, parents that instilled in her a positive spirit and inner calmness. She also leaves her sisters, Lana (Demetrios) Orphanides, Barbara Hadjstylianos, her sister-in-law Stella (Peter) Vassilopoulos, and nieces and nephews.
Janet attended the University of Rhode Island, graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and also played for the URI tennis team. After graduation she taught third grade in the Warwick school system. Janet enjoyed teaching, but took a leave of absence to be at home and raise her children. During this time she earned a Masters degree in Counseling from Rhode Island College.
Janet returned to education first in the Cumberland, then in the Cranston school systems as an elementary school guidance counselor. Janet's gentle, compassionate manner encouraged the students to confide in her. She was well respected in her field and helped many students, parents, teachers and administrators in difficult situations during her career. Some who still stayed in contact with her.
Janet was a good athlete enjoying all sports, especially tennis and swimming. She never missed a baseball, basketball, soccer or football game her boys played in. She had a green thumb, which was evident year round with many plants throughout the house. She was a wordsmith, had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. She enjoyed entertaining and hosting parties, dinners and holidays for friends and family. She loved being with family, especially her grandchildren; Theo, Anthony, Kolby, Tyler, Stella, Alexa and Olivia. She shared everything with them and would go from teaching them how to bake cookies, or a cake, to throwing a ball around in the back yard.
Strong but compassionate, Janet kept the family in line, not an easy task with the Kanelos crew. She was the one that held everyone together and did it with grace and ease.
You couldn't find a better wife and mother, or loyal and generous friend. Janet brought out the best in people and was always available to anyone in need. She touched many hearts and will be greatly missed by her family and many friends. Janet's funeral will be held Tuesday at 8:45 a.m. from "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home 600 Pontiac Avenue Cranston with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Mercy Church, East Greenwich. Burial will follow at Quidnessett Cemetery. Calling Hours MONDAY 4-8 p.m.
If you would like to honor Janet's memory, in lieu or donations, reach out and do something nice for someone. Please share memories and condolences at WoodlawnGattone.com