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Sara Janz Obituary
Beloved wife of Staff Sergeant Darien Jackson. Loving daughter of Roz Varon and Edward Janz. Dear sister of Amy (Neomi Luna) Janz and Brian Janz.
It is with deep sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Sara Janz, a brilliant and beloved young woman, at the age of 29. Sara's life was far too short, but her leadership, dedication and compassion will long be remembered by those whose lives she touched.
Sara is the daughter of retired ABC-7 traffic/feature reporter Roz Varon, and she followed in her mom's footsteps with tireless efforts on behalf of the TV Academy. Sara was instrumental in founding the NATAS Chicago/Midwest Chapter's Junior Board. It was Sara who recognized the need for a space where younger voices could come together to create meaningful change, and her spirit will continue to guide the junior board's work for years to come.
A former NATAS Chicago Scholarship recipient, her gratitude for that opportunity never wavered. Through her hard work and dedication, Sara demonstrated the kind of commitment that inspired those around her to strive for excellence. She volunteered her time at countless TV Academy events and helped foster an environment where future leaders can thrive. Sara was, above all, a kind and generous person who touched everyone she met with her warmth and intelligence.
Sara's passing leaves a void, but her legacy of kindness and leadership will never be forgotten. For all who knew her, Sara was a guiding light, and we are forever grateful for the time we had with her.
Service Tuesday, 11AM at Oak Park Temple, 1235 N. Harlem Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302. There will be a private family burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the NATAS Chicago Foundation - Sara Janz Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Columbia College, Communication Dept., 33 East Ida B. Wells Dr., Ste. 535, Chicago, IL 60605, www.tinyurl.com/natasgive.
To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website.
Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Rachel Davis
May 20, 2025
Roz, I don't really know you but have been watching you since I can remember. I just learned of your daughter's passing today. I am so very sorry... I remember all the times you had her with you on the set.
The death of a child is devastating. I know too many families that had to go through that, including mine. I lost my brother but my parents lost their child.... unthinkable.
I'm sending sincere condolences.... May her memory be a blessing.
Rachel Davis
Patryce Wilson
January 31, 2025
I'm a avid channel 7 watcher, watched Roz for yearsss and she would bring her to the set or she talked about her often. I am so sorry Roz Varon, you have that special Angel now!
Velma G Schwien
January 26, 2025
My deepest condolences go out to you and your family at this time Roz, Sara was such a beautiful young woman with a sweet smile. The times you shared with her on social media were wonderful to experience with you in all your travels and special celebrations together. My heart goes out to you in your grief, may God be with you during this time and may Sara's light shine down on you and bring you comfort and peace. May she rest in Paradise until you meet again.
Jason Pirone
January 22, 2025
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
I knew Sara through online correspondence. We chatted frequently. She had asked me to modify her old Gameboy a few years ago and I obliged. Your daughter was such a wonderful human being and words fail to sum her up adequately, let alone superlatively. She will be missed, but more importantly, she will be remembered fondly.
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Patricia Krutsch
January 20, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Tim Considine
January 13, 2025
I remember Sara's smiling face in 6th grade Social Studies. She always brightened the room. My deepest sympathies to all of Sara's families.
Lydia Ehmke
January 13, 2025
It's been a very long time since I knew Sara, but we were good friends when we were at Alcuin Montessori School and in Brownies together. I have a lot of memories of coming over to play with her regularly: playing a pretend school game where we were two girls with the same name spelled differently, Kailey (Sara) and Kaylee (me), jumping on her bed listening to one particular song from her Powerpuff Girls CD on repeat, sitting in the kitchen eating SpongeBob mac and cheese. I also remember a time we played Clue and I absolutely would not believe her about the pronunciation of the word Colonel- nope, Sara, you were right.
She later gave me that CD and while I don't think I have the physical disc anymore I still have the music. Kailey, the 2003 American Girl Girl of the Year, always reminds me of her (and this DOES still come up as I collect dolls). Somewhere, I hope I still have a recording of a song about stuffed animals we made in Brownies once.
I wish I'd had the chance to catch up with Sara as adults, but even though our friendship was so long ago, I still treasure the memory of it and of her. Her smile in that picture looks exactly how I remember.
I'm so, so sorry for your loss. I'm keeping you and all of her family and friends in my thoughts and sending my best wishes to all of you. I know Sara will always be in so many people's hearts.
Andrea Friedman
January 13, 2025
Dear Roz.
I'm so sorry to hear about Sara. I remember her fondly when she was a student at Roosevelt Middle School. She was a sweet girl with a great sense of humor. I also recall what a great advocate you were for her. I always enjoyed our interactions. May her memory be a blessing.
Andrea Friedman
Maria saldana
January 10, 2025
So sorry for your loss,sending prayers .
Darlene Johnson
January 10, 2025
So Sorry for your loss I know the feeling I have lost, but god has his beautiful child with him time will heal some wounds talk to god put your trust in him he will comfort you in your time of grief
Dean & Sue Moss
January 10, 2025
So very sorry, Roz!
Joyce Huettner
January 8, 2025
Dear Roz, my heart is breaking for you. I started watching the early morning news show when I had my son in 1989. You all became my family every morning as I fed my baby and watched the morning news. I saw your beautiful daughter grow up on the show. I can´t believe you are going through this and I am so very sorry. I pray God blesses you with strength and comfort as you navigate through this horrible loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Anita
January 8, 2025
Roz, you and your family have my deepest condolences, there is no deeper loss than that of a child.
Mary Ott
January 8, 2025
Roz, My deepest condolences to you, DJ,and the entire family. I watched you on-air and now follow you on Facebook. I can't imagine the pain you are feeling but hoping that in time you can find peace with the passing of Sara. I will keep you in my prayers.
Mary Ott (viewer)
Tonya (Viewer)
January 8, 2025
I was so extremely shocked and deeply sadden to hear of the passing of your beautiful daughter on the morning News today. So many wonderful things have been said and written about Sara, so she definitely lived her life just as you raised her. Your job as an amazing Mom has not gone unnoticed and Sara will be with you in spirit, every single day! May God keep you, her husband and your family at such a horrible time as this. You have my profound condolences...God Bless!
Robyn Kolb
January 8, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. Truly sad that any parent should have to mourn their child. My thoughts are with you.
Jodie
January 8, 2025
May the creator give you strength.
Julie Bohaczyk
January 8, 2025
You have my sincere condolences with Sara´s passing. There is no greater loss than the loss of a child. My heart goes out to you Roz and your family.
Julie
Melissa
January 8, 2025
Offering my deepest condolences to you, Roz. I remember watching you with Sara from the time she was a baby on channel 7. I always admired the beautiful relationship you two shared. You are an amazing mom. May you find comfort in your memories. Wishing you peace
Margaret Combs
January 8, 2025
I would like to extend my deepest condolences to your family and community. I fondly remember Sara as a spunky 5-year-old in my classroom at Alcuin Montessori School during my first year of teaching. Even at that young age, she had already developed such remarkable determination and curiosity. I am deeply saddened by the news of her passing and wish you comfort, peace and strength during this difficult time.
Warm Regards,
Margaret Combs
Dave Mann
January 8, 2025
Roz:
So sorry to hear of Sara's passing and know that you have many fond mmeories to cherish of her. Sara was a gifted young lady and it seems unfair that she was taken from this world too soon. Know that she touched many lives during her life.
Kerri Tuch
January 8, 2025
Roz, As you know, we were in all 4 years of highschool together. I can´t imagine a sadder time for you, your family, and Sara´s husband. I always admired the total love and admiration you & Sara had for each other. You did everything together, couldn´t get enough of each other, and had huge smiles in every photo. What incredible memories. I am so sad for her passing.
Cheryl Glick
January 8, 2025
I am so very sorry for your loss. May her memory always be a blessing.
(You probably don't remember me. You were friends with my sister while at Maine East.)
Tom Kolk
January 8, 2025
Pat Weiner
January 8, 2025
So sorry for the loss of Sara
I´m just a viewer but can see the
Love in your smile you carry with you for
Her
Pat W
Donna Pelletier
January 8, 2025
Every time we would visit the family Tom would bring Sara Lotto Tkts! She would be so excited and confident about "this time I´m going to win!" , as she took a coin to do her scratch offs. Ha. Fun times.
Olaide Adedeji
January 8, 2025
Roz, I´m sorry to hear the loss of your daughter, may her soul rest in perfect peace and I pray for Holy Spirit to comfort you and the entire family. I have watched your traffic News now for more than two decades. Peace be with you my friend
Maureen Detty
January 8, 2025
I met Sara at an Anti Cruelty event 20 years ago. She was just a child. She was so close to her Mom. Roz, my deepest sympathy to you on your profound loss.
Carolyn J
January 8, 2025
Roz, I am so sorry to hear about Sara. It was a joy watching her grow up on the news with you.. prayers for you and your family.
Julie Gunter
January 8, 2025
Sending Prayers and Love for comfort during this time for you Roz and your entire family. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Kelly Berendt
January 8, 2025
Roz,
I am a fellow River Forest resident and have watched you from the beginning.. I have often seen you and Sarah in the area Costco etc. and watched her grow up on ABC 7.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Sarah. Thinking of you and your family at this very difficult time. May her memory be a blessing.
Tim Smith
January 8, 2025
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Sara Janz. May God be with you all during this time of sorrow.
Margaret Hodge-Moores
January 8, 2025
Roz, I loved seeing Sara on TV with you. It was a pleasure watching her grow up!
Joan Thinger
January 8, 2025
Deepest sympathy to you and DJ.
Ann BentonClinton
January 7, 2025
My condolences Chicago family
Rena
January 7, 2025
Roz,I'm so sorry for your loss . Too young too soon.u would b at Grand Dental talking about her Prayers going your way. Rena
Marjorie Turner
January 7, 2025
Ros I am so sorry hear about your precious daughter Sara. You don´t know me, but I watched you every morning before you retired. I pray that God continue to bless you, comfort you and give you peace. Much love and prayers to your entire family.
Tyrone Taylor
January 7, 2025
My sincere condolences Roz, my heart goes out for you and family.
Jane Bross
January 7, 2025
So very sorry for your loss. I hope your memories will blanket you with comfort during your time of sorrow. Thank you for sharing your daughter and your relationship with her with all of us. She was a bright light.
PATRICIA HILL
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Donna Clark
January 7, 2025
To Roz Varon, family and friends my heartfelt condolences-praying God´s comfort for you
PATRICIA HILL
January 7, 2025
Your heart soon will be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
PATRICIA HILL
January 7, 2025
My deepest condolences to you Roz and family. I´ve never met you but seen you on tv numerous times with your mom. Sleep in heavenly peace
Jackie Lovelace
January 7, 2025
Sorry for your loss.
PATRICIA HILL
January 7, 2025
My deepest sympathy to your family. I never met you but saw you on tv numerous times. Roz n family I´m deeply saddened by your loss.
Ellen Maslo
January 7, 2025
Roz our sincere condolences in the loss of your beautiful daughter Sara. May your faith give you the strength to see you through this difficult time. The Maslo family.
The Gillette Family
January 7, 2025
Our sincere condolences to you Roz at this very difficult time. We enjoyed knowing Sarah from Alcuin Montessori school and onward after. No words can express, just sending you hugs and love. May her light shine on in your heart. Peace to you, Stuart, Yvette, Maddy and Sydney Gillette
Linda Jackson
January 7, 2025
To Roz , I'm so sorry for the lost of your beautiful daughter. I watched you for many years until your retirement and often you shared Sarah with your audience.
God bless you and your family
Linda Jackson
Rosemary Holman-Winsley
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Adiat Abiodun-Ewuosho
January 7, 2025
So sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful daughter. May the Lord comfort you. My condolences to you and your family.
Adiat
Jennifer Basso
January 7, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine the heartache you are going through. My prayers are with you and your family.
Carmel Kirby
January 7, 2025
So very Sorry for the loss of your precious daughter.
gina Stilling
January 7, 2025
I feel that I know are intimately as you have shared the love of your life with us for all these years. Dear Darien may you find peace in your memories and Roz may you always cherish the strong bond the two of you shared. with love,
Gina Stilling
Tyrone Barnes
January 7, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Mimi Kennedy
January 7, 2025
Dear Roz Varon, with sincere condolences on the loss of your Sara. You shared her with your tv audience over the years, May your memories bring you some comfort. Mimi Kennedy
Michele. DeSantis
January 7, 2025
She was the sweetest little girl. She and her mom on Halloween came to our house dressed as princesses Roz and. Sara lived on the next block in. Elmwood park Thus just breaks my heart
Birdie RENEE Nichols
January 7, 2025
My heart is with you Roz. I always remember you talking about Sara while you were with Channel. May God give you comfort!
Marge Karpy
January 7, 2025
Rox I feel like we have a connection because of watching you every morning. I am so sorry for your loss. A mother should never have to suffer the loss of her child and especially an only child. Your faith will get you through all the hard times ahead but it won´t be easy. Prayers for you and your family
Al and Marge Karpy
Kodros
January 7, 2025
My family and I are sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family.
Karen Whitman
January 7, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. Remember her coming with her mom to the station.
May God comfort you and your family in this difficult time
Coretta Moore
January 7, 2025
Roz, I am praying for you and the family. I am so sorry for your loss!
The Gary & Jones Families
January 7, 2025
Dearest Roz Varon & Family,
As loyal ABC7 News viewers, we were given a seat to watch Sara grow up as we watched you do the great work you did!! That is why we feel the need to express our most sincere condolences, as you all were a part of our daily lives!! Roz, when you retired you shared your plans for the future & spending quality time with Sara was a large part of those plans... But take heart, for to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord!! May the Lord comfort & keep you all in the most secure palm of His hands!! God Bless!!
Steve Apter
January 7, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about Sara. I was her teacher for two classes in the Columbia College Television Department. May her memory be a blessing.
Valerie Repasky
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Phyllis Zito Psyhogios
January 7, 2025
I'm am so very sorry for your great loss Roz. I can't begin to imagine what you are feeling. Your daughter was such a bright light. All of your posts with her and you can see her shine. I vaguely remember you living in EP when she was young and you taking her to the park across the street. Sending prayers to you and your family. May her memory be eternal.
Jacquelyn Armstrong
January 7, 2025
I am so sorry to hear the passing of your beautiful daughter. Praying for you and your husband.
Maureen Dubin
January 7, 2025
Roz, so very sorry to hear of your heartbreaking tragic loss. I can´t even begin to imagine what you´re going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you and DJ.
Lisa DiMatteo
January 7, 2025
Roz and family, sending my sincere condolence's and prayers to all of you in this most difficult time. Sara´s light will shine on forever in all of your hearts as you will shine in hers. Nothing can ever take the love and memories that all of you have in each other´s hearts. Love to all of you
Marilyn Wolter
January 7, 2025
RIP sweetest Sara......
Rubye Hardy
January 7, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Rubye Hardy
January 7, 2025
Rubye Hardy
Calvin J.
January 7, 2025
Roz, I am so sorry to hear this! I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers!
NANCY STOLLER
January 7, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Roz and her family and to Staff Sergeant Darien Jackson in the loss of Sara.
DZ
January 7, 2025
So very sorry for your great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
NANCY STOLLER
January 7, 2025
Roz, my deepest sympathy to you and your family along with Staff Sergeant Darien Jackson on the loss of Sara.
Karen Nate Huston
January 7, 2025
So very sorry for the loss of Sara. Sending deepest condolences
Meri Criss Smith
January 7, 2025
Roz, my deepest condolences to you and your entire family and Sara's husband and his family too.
Sharon Porch
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Cindy Matthias
January 7, 2025
My deepest sympathy to you, Roz and your family. Sara will forever be missed by so many, especially you, the best mother ever. You both were so blessed to have each other and to have shared so many beautiful memories together. God Bless you and give you strength and peace in the difficult days ahead.
Mikala, Ari, Lexi, Bri
January 7, 2025
We are Sara´s college roommates at Columbia Sara is one of the most creative people we´ve ever known. We´d often see her with her camera filming for her YouTube channel or just taking photos for fun.
Face masks and dancing around our apartment were often a part of our nightly routine. She´d always have a big smile on her face.
Our hearts are broken. If there were more Sara´s in this world it would be a better place. We are so grateful to have known Sara and will forever cherish our memories with her.
-Mikala, Ari, Lexi, and Bri
Neil Cacciottolo
January 7, 2025
I am so, so sorry. My sincere condolences to Roz, Edward and entire family on your loss.
VICKI GODISH
January 7, 2025
I am sorry for your lost
Cynthia Robbins
January 7, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of your tremendous loss! The world has lost a beautiful young woman. May you find peace and grace during this difficult time.
Karen Williams- Blackman
January 7, 2025
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this time of mourning. May you experience peace and grace during this difficult time.
Karen DiTommaso
January 7, 2025
So very sorry for your family´s loss. My heart breaks for you and hope you find comfort in your lovely memories
Renee Onyebuagu
January 7, 2025
My deepest sympathies. May the memories of your sweet Sara, bring a comforter that will fill your heart with peace.
Betsy Guerra
January 7, 2025
My sincere condolences for the loss of beautiful Sara. May her memories bring joy to you.
Colleen McMahon
January 7, 2025
Seeing Sara a little girl on channel 7 news . Bring your daughter to work day. Over the years watching her on News . Although I did not personally know her or Roz it always was a pleasure watching her growing and the love that Roz clearly showed for her beautiful daughter. So sorry for your loss.
Rick DiMaio
January 7, 2025
As a morning meteorologist on FOX 32 from 1996 - 2001, I got to know Roz through Tracy Butler. I would often say hello to Roz at the Auto Show. As an adjunct professor at Columbia College, I was Sara's instructor in Introduction to Meteorology. She was a joy to have as a student. Her smile and presence in my class always made it easier to get through the 2 1/2 hours. I recall her end of the year solo project was one of the best I have ever witnessed as a teacher. My deepest, deepest condolences to Roz and her husband as well as Sara's husband. It is clear that Roz was INCREDIBLY connected to her daughter in so many ways and wanted nothing but the best for her. The love that she gave to her daugher is clear in every post and every photo that is public. However, her private, mom-daugher behind the scene love is something we can all learn from. May Sara's spirit and smile soar above the clouds...... Rick DiMaio
Andrea Bell
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. She will be missed Ms. Bell OPRF Security
Paula Fagan
January 7, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Sending deepest sympathy during this devastating and tragic time of grief and loss.
Donna Pelletier
January 7, 2025
It was a gift to be apart of Sara´s life and to see her grow into a beautiful young woman. So many wonderful memories which we will cherished to eternity! May Sara´s memory be a blessing to all.
Anne Fitzgerald
January 7, 2025
Dear Roz
I am so very sorry about Sara!
My heart breaks for you.
You are such a wonderful Mom!
May God surround you with comfort and peace
We love you
Anne Fitzgerald
Marilyn Beato
January 7, 2025
I am just heartbroken for Sara´s family. This is such devastating news. I follow Roz on Facebook and always took delight in the way she talked about Sara with such love and devotion. Words seem so empty right now but I hope your memories will be a light in the darkness.
Annie Morris
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Millie V Myers
January 7, 2025
Roz, my family prayers and condolences to you and your entire family for the loss of your beloved daughter. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Lillian Little
January 7, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Scott Andrews
January 7, 2025
Hi Roz, your daughter Sara was very special. I've enjoyed seeing her grow up on both ABC 7 and then on your social media. I, too, am into visual media and jounalism. I am a Chicago-based artist and graphic designer. I've studied at other universities but no degree yet. I will attend Columbia College or possibly Medill at NU in the next year or so.
I do know a great artist and photographer when I see their work. That was your daughter, no doubt! Somehow, years ago, I came across her little-known Instagram account. It only has about 350 followers. I've followed it and seen the progression of her works.
You should be very proud of her accomplishments. I hope you have access to her original Instagram photography and artwork. Maybe consider publishing a book in her honor? I wish you the best and am sending you and your family a hug. Take care!
Linda Frank
January 7, 2025
My condolences to the entire family. i never met Sara but heard about her and was fb friends with her. She was adored by her mom and they did everything together.
She was way too young to lose her life.
May all your wonderful memories live in your heart forever. Roz you were a model mother and friend to Sara. i remember you had asked me years ago to see if i could get her in to Lou Malnatis. You did everything in your power and you were the best mother. You have millions of people who care about you and love you. i hope you are able to reach out if you need anything.
Again i am so sorry!!! Sending hugs to you.
Jack R
January 6, 2025
So sorry for your loss. I went to Columbia with Sara. She was a lovely person and a stand out talent among the other students
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