Obituary of Janice Elaine Wychopen

It is with sadness that the family of Janice Wychopen announces her passing on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at the age of 79. Janice will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Mellanie (Trevor) Jones; grandchildren Teagan and Julianna; sister Marlene Ross (dec. Grant); brother Garnet (Vicki) Ziola; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her son and daughter-in-law Terry and Angie Wychopen; parents Adolph and Eva Ziola; sisters Grace Merritt and Edith Antonio; and nephew Curtis Ross.

Janice was born in Wadena, SK and grew up on a farm 20 miles north of Margo, SK. While growing up, Janice had the “outdoor” jobs which included milking cows, picking stones, gardening, and cleaning the barn. She went to Robertson School, a one room country school, until grade 7. After that, a bus service was established so she attended and graduated from school in Margo.

Following high school, Janice took the Registered Psychiatric Nursing program at the Saskatchewan Hospital in North Battleford which she competed in 1966. 

Upon graduation, Janice spent some time in Oklahoma where she was a night shift supervisor at a state hospital. She then returned to North Battleford where she worked at the Saskatchewan Hospital as both a psychiatric nurse and instructor, as well as at a number of nursing homes. For the next 26 years, she worked at the Battlefords Mental Health Centre until her retirement in 2015 at the age of 71. 

In 2021, Janice moved to Regina to be closer to Mellanie, Trevor, Teagan, and Julianna. Her favourite part of life was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Janice will be greatly missed by those who knew her.  Memories of her loving and generous nature, time spent in her gorgeous yard, and summer adventures will be held close in her family’s heart.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Battlefords Mental Health Centre, Inpatient Unit, 1092-107th Street, North Battleford, SK  S9A 1Z1 or St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1302 - 99th Street, North Battleford, SK  S9A 3E8.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Regina, SK.