Janet Rose Gartrell

Janet was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Harvey and Evelyn Gartrell, where she spent her early years alongside her brother, Russell Gartrell (who predeceased her in October 2017). During World War II, the family moved to Portland, Oregon, where her parents initially worked in the shipyards. Janet graduated high school in 1957 and then from Oregon State University in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. Her parents remained in Portland, where they both later passed away, her father in June 2000 and her mother in December 2002.
Janet began her teaching career in Hillsboro, Oregon. In 1963, she moved to Munich, Germany, where she taught elementary school to children of U.S. military families. In 1968, she returned to the United States with several dear friends she met overseas, soon settling in Epping Forest, Annapolis, Maryland. Janet continued her teaching career in Anne Arundel County, where she influenced countless young people before retiring in 1999. She loved her students and took pride in helping them discover the joy of learning.
Never one to sit still, Janet filled her life with adventure and creativity. With friends she explored many places via motorhome / car, hiking boots and tent camping. She had a love for the skies and the water, spending time hot air ballooning, flying, and boating. Janet flew private planes and remained a part-owner of one well into her 60s. She also operated both sail and motorboats with confidence and joy.
Animals, especially dogs, were another of Janet's great loves. Over the years she shared her life with many, and for a time, she competed successfully in dog agility trials, earning numerous awards. She adored birds, knowing the species that visited her feeders, and she enjoyed the quiet moments spent watching them.
Janet found joy in painting and sketching, often sharing her artwork as gifts with friends. She had a gift for capturing beauty - not just on canvas, but in the way she noticed and appreciated the world around her.
Perhaps Janet's greatest gift was her capacity for friendship. She treasured the connections she made throughout her life - maintaining lifelong bonds and welcoming new friends with warmth and laughter. Her radiant smile, quick wit, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew her. Janet was kind, independent, headstrong, and full of life - a truly remarkable woman. She will be remembered not only for all she accomplished, but for the joy she brought to everyone lucky enough to know her.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Lasting Tributes Funeral Care on Bestgate Road in Annapolis on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. Memorial donations in Janet's memory may be made to Frisky's Wildlife & Primate Sanctuary, 10790 Old Frederick Road, Woodstock, MD, 21163.