Janet Lee Tietje (née Kathe), age 90, of Westlake, OH, entered into eternal life on January 6, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Janet was a woman of remarkable warmth, strength, and joy—described by her family as “sunshine in human form.” She did everything with purpose, unwavering positivity, and enthusiasm. A true social butterfly, Janet never met a stranger. She was beloved by everyone who had the good fortune to know her.
A natural leader early in life, Janet was the 1953 Shaw High School Homecoming Queen, Secretary/Treasurer of the Friendship Club, Captain of the Basketball team and All-Star Volleyball player. A trailblazer in her professional life, Janet was the owner of a Nationwide Insurance Agency at a time when few women held such roles. She shattered glass ceilings with grace and determination, paving the way for others while never losing her kindness or generosity of spirit. Later in life, her vibrant personality made her a well-loved resident at Concord Reserve, where her warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others continued to brighten every room she entered.
Janet found great joy in gardening, baking, and cooking, often expressing her love through perfectly manicured flower beds, beautifully prepared meals, and shared time around the table. Her greatest passions, however, were her family and helping others. She was a devout and longtime member of Rockport United Methodist Church, where she served others as a mentor and Stephen’s Minster. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her pride in her family and faith knew no bounds.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frederick and Muriel (Calkins) Kathe, and brother, David Kathe.
Janet is survived by her loving children, Kathe DiMatteo (Bill) and Thomas Tietje (Trish Stagnaro); her cherished grandchildren, Kelsey Sinko (Steve), Jayna Tietje, Lindsay DiMatteo (Stephen Chesler), and Shawna Tietje (fiancé Joel Lapinsky); her adored great-grandchildren, Adrien Lamanna, Julian Chesler, Jameson Tietje, William Sinko, Charlie Sinko, Brooks Chesler, and Emma Sinko; nephews Scott Kathe (Marilyn) and Eric Kathe (Kim); great-niece Jessica Kathe; and countless dear friends.
Janet leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, faith, and joy. Her light lives on in the countless lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at Concord Reserve and Cypress Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they showed Janet. Your gentle hands, warm hearts, and unwavering support brought comfort not only to Janet but to all of us as well.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service honoring Janet’s life on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Concord Reserve, 2116 Dover Center Road, Westlake, Ohio, 44145. A private interment will follow, in accordance with Janet’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Cleveland Sight Center.
she overcame many obstacles and remained joyful and a blessing to others even in adversity.
As a family member & one of my best friends, I will miss chatting w/Aunt Jan by phone, sharing many good memories of some of our family visits. We were pen pals for 20 years, exchanging photos of birthdays and holidays. When her eyesight failed her, our contact by phone was a blessing. Recently as of a week ago, I told her how I’ll miss our conversations of our faith, when she’s gone, and would say as such; Free at Last; Free at Last!!” Thank you, dear friend for your words of love & support.