- Date Of Birth: September 19, 1914
- Date Of Death: November 1, 2013
- State: Ohio
Elsie Bertha Janek (nee Karasek), age 99, longtime resident of Cleveland and Middleburgh Heights passed away Friday, November 1, 2013 at the Sterling House in Salem. Elsie was born in Cleveland on September 19, 1914, daughter of the late Anton and Stella Kozeny Karasek, and beloved wife of the late James Frank Janek. Elsie was a life member of Sokol-Ceska Sin Karlin, a supporter of the Czech newspaper and the Czech Radio Program. Her personal interests included domestic and international travel, collecting cut crystal and the study of Czech-American history and heritage. As a Cleveland business co-owner, she supported the war effort during WWII by feeding factory workers in Cleveland. She and her husband also owned a business in Cleveland Heights during the Korean War. Elsie also worked as an executive secretary at Austin Engineering and Otis Elevator. She contributed to disabled veterans and was recognized as a “Bronze Leader” for her devotion and generosity toward American veterans. Survivors include her son, James A. Janek and his wife, Nancy Reese Janek of Bonita Springs, Florida; grandchildren, Jean Jerina (George), Mary Janek and James R. Janek; great-grandchildren, Stefani Jerina, Kelli Jerina, Lindsey Jerina, Drew Janek, Aislinn Janek, Derek Janek and Gage Janek; and her sister, Evelyn Petroc.
