Janis Martell

Obituary On July 3, 2017, we lost our beloved wife, mother, Nana & friend. Jan was born May 7, 1948 and was preceded in death by her parents Stanley & Sue Sliva as well as her brother Richard Sliva. She is survived by her loving husband Robert "Bob" Martell; children Lori (Eddie) Nelson, Bobby (Cara) Martell; 4 grandchildren Julie, Brooke, Brynn & Joey; and two step-grandchildren Ashley & Fiona. Jan graduated from Lincoln High School in 1966. She attended & earned her license in cosmetology "Beautician" school shortly after. In 1968 Jan married her high school sweetheart, Bob. Jan worked for only a few years before Bob was drafted into the military and she was pregnant. She decided to be a stay-at-home mom to both Lori & Bobby until they were in middle school. She then ran her own family business in vending machines and later became a school bus driver for Tacoma Public Schools (TPS). Jan retired from TPS in 2011 after having her first heart attack. In retirement Jan's favorite pastime was attending grandchildren's sporting events. Anyone attending these events knew how passionate and loving of a grandmother she was. Nothing in the world made her happier than spending time with family. She always brought a special treat for each child after the event and we nicknamed her "Sugar Nana" for it. Last week Bob & Jan celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary. It may have been in the hospital but they were together. Shortly after, Jan lost her long courageous battle with heart disease, kidney failure & vascular issues. Jan will be truly missed by those who knew her. Nobody could make us laugh like our mom. Rosary will be recited Monday, July 10th at 6:30pm at Gaffney Funeral Home, 1002 S. Yakima Ave, Tacoma, WA. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, July 11th at 12:00pm at Holy Rosary Church in Tacoma. Reception to follow in the church hall. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home