Janet E. Poznik

Janet E. Poznik, 80, of Shaler, passed away peacefully on Nov. 11. Jan was born Aug. 4, 1944, to parents Stephen and Jean Poznik, and she lived on the North Side of Pittsburgh, growing up with her dear cousins. 

Jan made her own way through life. She lost both her parents in her early 20s. She went to beauty school with her cousin and helped her open a salon and, later, Jan opened her own shop, The Mane Place. Her salon, set up in the front room of her house, provided for her family while allowing her to be a present parent for her children at home. 

Jan was a pillar of strength and fiercely loyal, especially when it came to her kids. As a single mom, motherhood had its challenges, but being a great mom came easily. In addition to her daughter, Krisna (Stahl), she was proud of her three adopted sons – Brandon, Lee and Spencer – and the 50 foster children she cared for and loved. 

Her true life’s work was being a foster parent. She comforted babies going through withdrawal, helped families be reunited, and was a passionate advocate for children. Her mother’s intuition was truly unmatched. 

In more recent years, it was her grandchildren who brought her the most joy. Her Jove and Astraea (Stahl) are so lucky to have had their “Deba” in their lives. She always had a gift, a hug, and a teasing joke for them at the ready. While we wish she could’ve stayed longer, she loved us all enough to last more than a lifetime. 

A fan of the Pennsylvania Lottery, Jan always dreamed of “winning the big one.” What she didn’t realize is that the people in her life were winners because of her presence. She faced her death as she did life, with determination and grit, but without fear. Jan’s kindness, generosity and tenacious spirit will be missed immensely.

Survived by daughter Krisna and son-in-law, Tyson; sons Brandon Underwood, Lee Jordan and Spencer Angel; grandchildren Jove and Astraea; great-aunt Dolores Cerminara; cherished cousins and additional family and friends. 

As per Jan’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held. The family will host a celebration of life at a later date. If you wish to honor Jan’s memory, drop off some donuts to someone who’s shown you kindness, plant some tomato seeds and flowers in the spring, and for goodness’ sake, let’s win that Powerball for her already. 

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