Janice Merle Wonkka

Janice Merle Wonkka, known by many as “Wawa" passed away on July 12. 2024. Born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts on November 7, 1937, Janice's life was full of compassion, empathy, love, dancing to Josh Groban and laughter. Her spirit, love for family, and sense of humor were as constant as the northern star, guiding and brightening the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.

Janice was a pillar within the community, having spent her career as a legal secretary in at O'Connor & Ryan in Fitchburg, MA. She retired in 1989, her dedication will always be remembered by those she worked with. Although she was known for her hard work and dedication, it was her warm heart and empathetic nature that truly set her apart. As Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Janice embodied this sentiment, always leaving individuals feeling loved and valued. Upon retirement, Janice devoted her time to the people and activities that mattered most to her. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

She is survived by her loving family: her daughter Andrea Spyropoulos and husband Scott Spyropoulos, her son Christopher and wife Beth LeBlanc, and her brother John Wonkka. Her memory will forever permeate through the love and laughter shared within the family. She will be missed by her 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her grandson Joshua Cormier. Janice's legacy of love, compassion, and humor lives on in all who were touched by her life. 

We invite those who knew and loved Janice to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page, http://www.brandonfuneral.com. This will allow us to celebrate and remember the truly remarkable woman that Jan was. As we honor her life, we are reminded of a quote by William Penn - "I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there can be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now... as I shall not pass this way again." Janice, indeed, did not let her journey through life pass without showing immense kindness and love. She will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life will take place at a later

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.