Janice Mae Pongrat

Janice Mae Pongrat, 77, of New Philadelphia passed away on Saturday, November 21, 2009 in Akron City Hospital.

Born on March 31, 1932 she was the daughter of the late Edgar and Myrta Gartrell Beans. She graduated from New Philadelphia High School and later married the love of her life, Harry D. Pongrat on October 28, 1956. Together they had two sons. Harry preceded her in death on February 26, 2005.

For many years, Janice worked as an operator at GTE and at the former Quik Chek Convenient Store in Dover. She also worked as a nurse's aid at New Dawn Retirement Community.

Janice was a longtime Dover resident and an avid fan of the Dover Tornadoes. She was actively involved with the Dover Mother's Club. She enjoyed cooking, and loved opening her home for her family and friends to gather. Janice was a best friend to many. She also enjoyed refinishing antiques and feeding the squirrels in her back yard. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in New Philadelphia and the Red Hat Society.

Janice will be sadly missed by her two sons; Ned Pongrat of Newcomerstown, and Kent (wife, Sherry) of New Philadelphia; and her sister Donna (husband, Wayne) Wilkinson of New Philadelphia; her sister in-law, Joy (husband, Chuck) Grossenbacher of Strasburg, as well as many nieces and nephews and good friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death her sister; Joan Hall and Brother in-law, Tom Hall.

In keeping Janice's wishes, she will be cremated through the care of Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory. Inurnment will take place at Dover Burial Park. To sign an online guestbook and share a fond memory of Janice, please visit the Toland-Herzig Web site and click on "Obituaries."

Memorial contributions can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 740 Lakeview Plaza Blvd, Suite 225 Worthington, Ohio 43085.

Toland Herzig
330-343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com