Obituary of Janet Marie Bronk

Janet M. Bronk, daughter of Leona (Swartz) and Stanley Eckler, passed away at her home on September 13, 2018, where she fought courageously to remain at her young age of 91. She is predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Robert (Bob) K. Bronk, who she married November 7, 1963.

She is survived by children Alan Cunningham (Carrie) of Ballston Spa, N.Y, Lynn Cunningham Young (Peter) of Malta, NY and Kalee Nichols O’Connor (Patrick) of Nelliston, NY.  She is also survived by beloved grandchildren Siera and Dylan Nichols, Jason Cunningham, Laurie Pascucci, Robin Gawrys, Greg Stevens and nine great-grandchildren. 

Born in Nelliston, NY, she graduated from Fort Plain High School in 1944.  Janet worked for General Telephone Company in Canajoharie as an operator of a desk type key and push button board.  She then worked for Beech Nut in the Sales Promotion department.  In the late 1970’s, Janet and her husband became owners of the Gift Gallerie on Center Street in Fort Plain.  During this time, Janet trained as an EMT and worked on the Mid-County Volunteer Ambulance Service.  This experience led to her to enroll in the nursing program at Fulton-Montgomery Community College, a dream that led her to work as a home health aide with the Schenectady Visiting Nurses Association and Community Health Center in Johnstown.

Following her mother’s legacy, Janet spent more than 25 years as a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She distinguished herself as Matron for 10 years and served as Grand Officer in 2005.

In later life, Janet enjoyed time with her grandchildren, camping and fishing in the Adirondacks, and travel.  Her special hobby was doll collection and crafting porcelain dolls.  She also became NYS certified in doll repair and used that talent to restore many treasures.  

The family thanks Janet’s special friend and helper, Elaine Clark, who supported her at home over the past year.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, September 16, 2018 at 3:00PM at The Chapel of Gray-Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, 34 Center Street, Fort Plain, NY.  The family will receive relatives and friends on Sunday from 1:00-3:00PM at the funeral home.  Burial will take place in Fort Plain Cemetery.

Contributions in memory of Mrs. Janet Marie Bronk may be made to Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter, Inc., 133 Hilltop Road, Sprakers, NY 12166.