Janice T. Saal, M.D.,Ph.D

Janice T. Saal, M.D.,Ph.D., passed away quietly on the morning of February 2, 2025, with family and friends by her side, after a period of declining health. Janice was a beacon of ambition, a testament to the power of dedication and wit, and a woman whose sharp intellect was only rivalled by her compassionate heart. Born on July 29, 1960, in Athol, Massachusetts, Janice was a force to be reckoned with from the start, possessing an unrivalled zest for life and an insatiable curiosity that would shape her future.

Janice's love for learning propelled her to soaring heights in her academic and professional life. Janice was a 1977 graduate of Athol High School, the Salutatorian of her class. She then attended the University of Vermont, receiving her undergraduate degree in the Sciences, her Masters and PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology and her MD in Medicine, followed by her general surgery residency, earning her the well-deserved title of Doctor. Doctor. Janice ultimately chose to practice at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, Massachusetts where she was a respected surgeon for 17 years, receiving several awards over her lifetime, including the prestigious Charles Hatem Fellowship in Medical Education, and accolades from her colleagues and patients. 

Janice was dedicated to her family, her friends, her dogs and her patients. She was not, however, all work and no play. She had an adventurous spirit that drew her to a variety of hobbies. Janice was an avid runner, including running the Boston Marathon in the pouring rain, she enjoyed sailing on Lake Champlain, gardening, hosting at her Westport, MA house, laughing often, and caring for her dogs. Many patients became her friends. She brought into her home and cared for both of her parents and several friends when they needed her. The world is a better place because of Janice, we are better people because of Janice, and to say she will be missed is an understatement.

Janice leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and friendship. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law John and Mary Coflesky, her nephews and their respective wife Michael and Krista Coflesky and David and Kelley Coflesky, their daughter Kennedy Coflesky, her best friend of 43 years Gloria Flinn, her dog Elvis, and an amazing neighborhood of wonderful caring friends. She is preceded in death by her father John Coflesky and her mother Adele Coflesky. 

As we gather to remember Janice, we are reminded of the love she had for her family, her friends, her dogs, and her patients and her simple desires to be included, to be helpful and to love and be loved. Rest in peace Janice.

Please share your memories of Janice and upload photos to the memorial page to celebrate the life of this remarkable woman. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her name to the Athol High School Scholarship Association. Attention Diane Maga Page, P.O. Box 338, Athol MA 01331.

Calling Hours will be held on April 4, 2025 at 10:00AM with a Celebration of Life to follow at 11:00AM at Mack Family Funeral Homes Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange.