Janet Susan Pollard

Janet Susan Pollard, a devoted mother and a woman of extraordinary strength and determination, passed away on January 18, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

On April 6,1943 in Toronto, Janet was born the eldest daughter of seven children to Frederick John Ashton Pollard and Ethel Fraser Pollard (née Wilson), both of whom preceded her in death.  Janet is survived by her four beloved daughters; Victoria LaRocque-Desrochers (Roger Desrochers), Denise LaRocque, Angela LaRocque and Rochelle LaRocque-Chapman (Korey Chapman).  She was a proud “Nanny” to six cherished grandchildren; Nathan, Caylee and Shaelyn Desrochers; Ashton and Roan LaRocque; and Kole Chapman.  Janet is survived by her siblings Frederick Pollard (Carol), Kent Pollard (Irene), Lynne Pollard, Scott Pollard (Suzanne), Laurel Pollard-Murphy (Jerry Murphy) and Lesley Pollard; and adored cousins Sue Trenholm (née Monkman) and Marilyn MacDonald (née Monkman) as well as many extended family members and devoted friends.

Born during an uncertain period of time in history, at an early age Janet learned perseverance, a quality that would define her life.  Her formative years were spent surrounded by extended family.  Janet cherished her young years in the company of her Aunt Marjorie and Uncle Edward Monkman, creating memories that would last her lifetime.

Janet grew up playing hockey with her brothers and learning to sew and knit from her grandmothers.  From a young age her talents were wide spread.  Growing up in a house with six younger siblings meant there was always activity, excitement and an early sense of responsibility for Janet.  Janet’s most vivid and memorable memories are of summers spent as a child with siblings and cousins at the family cottage in Orillia.  Janet often shared cherished stories of family driving trips to Florida in vehicles filled with her parents, siblings and grandmothers, before the development of the Interstate Highways.  Growing up surrounded by extended family was a treasure and the foundation of many memories and stories that will live on.

Earning a degree from Waterloo Lutheran University (currently named Wilfrid Laurier University) and a teaching certificate, Janet began her career as a teacher.  She enjoyed her time in education, however her real passion was the world of art.  Janet possessed a wide range of artistic talents, each reflecting her unique spirit.  Her creativity was expansive, and her abilities spanned many mediums and genres.  She has said that the gift of art had “saved” her throughout her lifetime.  Her talents span the distance between designing and sewing her daughters’ wedding dresses and various custom clothing pieces to quilting, fabricating stained glass, pen and ink drawings, watercolour and oil paintings, mural artwork, gardening, landscaping, baking and woodworking.  The ability to produce and share her creations filled her with great pride.  Her talents not only served as a way of expressing and soothing herself, they also allowed her to earn a living.

As a single mother, Janet tenaciously raised four young daughters, navigating many challenges along the way with determination, grit and grace.  Life did not always offer an easy path, but she met every obstacle with courage and an unshakable commitment to her children. Through

sacrifice, hard work, and unwavering love, she remained a trusted safe space and a soft landing for her children and later grandchildren.

Her proudest accomplishment and greatest legacy was raising four strong, independent, and successful women.  By her example, she taught them the importance of family, resilience, compassion, and perseverance.  Her influence lives on in their lives and in the generations that follow.

In her later years, Janet found happiness, stability and meaningful friendships, enjoying a well-earned season of peace and contentment.  After years of struggle and giving so much of herself to others, she embraced this time with gratitude and quiet pride, knowing the life she built and the legacy she created were meaningful and lasting.

Janet will be adoringly remembered for her strength, her sacrifices, and her unconditional love.  Her legacy is one of perseverance, family, and unwavering devotion to her family.  She leaves behind her four beloved daughters, six cherished grandchildren, and many family and friends who will forever treasure her memory.

A Celebration of Janet’s Life is tentatively planned to take place during the month of April. More details to be announced in the coming weeks.

In honoring her memory, we remember a woman whose strength changed lives and whose love will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, and to honour Janet’s love of animals, please consider a donation to the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals  (OSPCA).