Janice Cheryl (Blankenship) Patik

Janice Cheryl (Blankenship) Patik, 73, of Lander passed away at Sage West Hospital on December 21, 2020. She was born to Edd and Verna Blankenship on July 10, 1947 in Watonga, Oklahoma. The youngest of 6, she loved telling stories of her early childhood in Oklahoma. Her family moved to the Pavilion area when she was 6 years old.  A member of the class of 1965 of Pavilion High School, Janice went on to receive her Bachelor's of Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming.  Her storytelling and quick wit supported her enjoyment of writing. She enjoyed writing poems, songs and children's books about her character "Sammy Snowsnake" for her family.

Janice married Edward Patik, II on May 12, 1967,  followed him during his service in the US Navy and worked in the banking industry while living in Los Angeles, Memphis and Honolulu, Hawaii.  Janice and Ed returned to Lander in 1971 to start their family and live near family and friends.

Janice was a beloved 4 ^th grade teacher at South Side Elementary school. She poured herself into her students, understanding their individual needs and encouraging their best. Many of her past students attribute their love of reading to her, and most remember the 4 ^th grade Wyoming History program she wrote for their all-classroom performance.  Janice taught 4 ^th grade until she lost her vision in 1980 but continued her devotion to children's education and development by opening TK Carousel Preschool.

Janice adored traveling and spent time exploring Europe, South Korea, the Hawaiian Islands and the United States mainland. She enjoyed her time visiting friends and family and experiencing new cultures and customs.

Janice had a strong Christian faith which she exhibited through words, deeds and service. Through her physical and health challenges Janice clung tightly to her relationship with Christ and exhibited grace and confidence in His plan.

She was an active member and council member of First Baptist Church of Lander where she shared her beautiful soprano voice in the church choir, specials vocalist and worship leader.

Janice made sure she gave words of encouragement, soft advice, patience, and beautiful smile to all. Her children and grandchildren were her everything and she made them each feel loved beyond measure.

Janice is survived by her husband, Ed, of Lander,  Daughters Kami Poledna (Cary) of Lander and Tanja Nelson (Lee) of Longmont, CO, her greatest joys, Grandchildren: Alex, Braeley and Klaycee Poledna of Lander and Griffin and Annika Nelson of Longmont, Sisters: Lois Holman, Shirla Ingram, brother Dumont Blankenship, numerous nieces and nephews and many close friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents Edd and Verna Blankenship, brothers Keith Blankenship and Thaine Blankenship.

Services will be held for Janice Patik Tuesday, December 29 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Lander.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lander Senior Center.