Janet Minney

Belchertown - Janet (Opalenik) Minney, 59, of Ludlow St. died on March 6, 2010 at home surrounded by her family. Born April 6, 1950 in Holyoke, daughter of the late Stephen and Louise (Bernier) Opalenik. Janet has lived in Belchertown since 1981, on her farm, where she enjoyed gardening, growing sunflowers and working in her flowerbeds. She was an artist and enjoyed painting and loved the outdoors. She loved the beach and taking trips to Hampton Beach with her family, as well as watching the sunsets in Key West, Florida. She was active in her community, serving as secretary and chairman for the board of appeals and as the first Farmer's Market manager. Janet was an active volunteer at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Hartford, CT and a member of the Swift River Sportsman's club where she enjoyed archery. Janet was a caring and loving wife, mother and friend and she opened up her home as a foster parent to many children over the years. She is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, Donald "Skip" Minney and three children, Sarah Minney, Marc Jenkins, and Michael Minney, all of Belchertown. She also leaves two sisters: Suzie Opalenik of Chicopee, and Joyce Hersey of Agawam, three brothers: Steve Opalenik, Danny Opalenik both of S.Hadley and Jimmy Opalenik of Florence. She also leaves aunts, uncles, cousins and many loving friends. Janet was preceded in death by her sister Annie Opalenik. A funeral service will be held at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, on Thursday at 11 AM. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of ones choice.