Janet Faye Sands, 74

Janet Faye Sands, 74, passed away March 2, 2018, at her home in Kalispell.

“Don’t get rid of that, it’s an antique.” If anything prompted a joyful memory for Janet, then it was, without question, priceless and irreplaceable. Countless treasures aside, the things that meant the very most to her were her friends and family. It is Janet’s wish that her most precious friends (too numerous to list but not forgotten) would know that they, amongst her beloved family, are truly what meant the most to her.

Talented artist and creative soul, skilled with a paintbrush, cofounder of the Montana State Ceramic Association, Janet had a skilled eye and a passion for attending ceramic shows as a judge across many different states. Her hands were always busy. Every vibrant painting and meticulous creation was a direct reflection of the altruistic beauty that radiated all around her, so brightly you could almost see it, yet certainly feel it. She cherished everything from her friendly birds and squirrels to ceramic shows, hairstyles and high school reunions. She never let pink nail polish go out of style.

Janet was born April 3, 1943, in Kalispell. She graduated from (then) Flathead County High School in 1961 and went on to C&C Beauty School shortly thereafter. She then joined up with the love of her life, eloped, and began her lifelong objective of leaving footprints on the hearts of everyone she met.

Janet is survived by her lifelong love, companion, and husband of 55 years, having been married on Oct. 5, 1962, Sonny “Lawrence” Sands; her children and grandchildren, Rodney (wife Debbie, children Zachary and Kasey); Talis (child Tayvia); her sister, Starlene Puuri (children Brian, Aaron, Justin and Amanda); many in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and beloved family members.

In the warm comfort of her own home, wrapped tightly in a blanket of endless love from her family, Janet Faye Sands, with a smile on her face and humor in her heart, “is reunited” with her mother Marleen Hoylman, father Howard Hoylman, and brother Lee Hoylman.

A celebration of her unforgettable 74 years of life will be held this up and coming summer.

Cremation will take place at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home.