Monday, March 14, 2022
Janet: Sports buddy and much more.
I moved to the Valley in 1989, and during my first week, I met Julie and George. In those early years, our kids played together, and it was during that time I met Janet.
The generosity of the Mordecai family has had a tremendous impact on the San Luis Valley, and I’m sure many other places. La Puente was one of many beneficiaries. Dan had supported start-up costs for Milagros Coffee House. Janet, years later, quietly gave us help to get our three-dimensional iconic sign, in part a tribute to Dan. I think of her every time I go in.
During one visit to Denver I thought I’d try to connect with Janet to express my gratitude. Somehow, that visit culminated in a night out watching the Denver Nuggets. During that evening, I discovered someone who was as fanatical about Colorado sports as myself. Normally, in my friendship circle, a conversation about sports over 3 minutes long would lead to their eyes waxing over, looking to segue to anything else. Yet Janet was the first person that stayed toe-to-toe with me with all the game plan minutiae, player details, and coaching strategies. That led to random post-game phone calls, sharing respective analysis of both the Av’s and the Nuggets. On subsequent ventures to Denver, we would see the Nuggets with her season tickets. On other times I had a friend with Av’s tickets and she was my go-to sports buddy.
Over time our friendship blossomed in other ways. Janet opened her doors for me to stay at her home on many of my Denver excursions. During those times we would take deep forays into state and national politics. Those exchanges were passionate, feisty and quite satisfying! Her political beliefs and actions were deeply informed and acted upon.
We talked about “love of family” and the problems and struggles of each of our kids, one by one. (I want all of her family to know how proud she was of each one of you!) And then there was Dan. Her admiration, love, and devotion to him sparkled in her eyes every time she told a story about him.
The strongest time of our friendship came during my divorce from Stephanie, the mother of my/our three children. Janet could sense how depleted I was, and helped my fragile self-esteem find footing. She would call and check in on me, a great listener and supporter. I confided in her during the early days of my acquaintance and relationship with Rachael. She was so affirming and supportive, not riled by our age difference. In 2013, Janet travelled to the Valley to join our small wedding celebration.
Last fall I had an extra Bronco ticket and reached out to Janet to cheer the team on against the rival KC Chiefs. She was unable to join us, and so we promised each other a rain check. The recap call turned into an hour-long analysis of the Nuggets’ forthcoming season…sports bliss for this junking. I will miss my sports buddy.
Janet’s genuine heart of love touched me for many years. I love you Janet, and you’re support and friendship are a lasting memory.
Lance Cheslock
