Janis Adams Meckel, 85

Janis Adams Meckel died peacefully with her family at her side on June 23, 2022, after living a very full 85 years. She was an identical twin born on Jan. 30, 1937, in Spokane, Wash.

Her family moved to Coeur d’Alene, where she met a young man who picked her up in his pickup on the way to a football game. High school sweethearts, Jim and Janis married 65 years ago.

After a stint at the University of Idaho, Jim talked Janis into moving to Alaska with their two young daughters for Jim’s job with the Geological Survey, much to the chagrin of Janis’ mother. What followed was a grand adventure for Janis with two more baby girls: an epic earthquake, a flood, moose in the backyard, sewing parkas, canning salmon, long weeks of taking care of everything while Jim’s job took him away from home. They returned to Coeur d’Alene after 17 years to run Meckel Engineering. Janis oversaw the building of their beautiful log home overlooking the lake. Reunited with her twin, Joyce, they began taking care of their elder family members.

She cooked amazing meals, was an active member of Happy Homemakers, enjoyed travel (kind of), and listened to opera. In the early mornings, Janis loved to walk in the woods with her dog and, at the end of the day, she loved to sit and talk with Jim. Her ready laugh and pure kindness are renowned in her family and community.

Left with years of fond memories are her two brothers, John and Wally Adams, along with a wonderful group of nephews and nieces. Her daughters, Michelle, Monica and Laura provided her with six grandsons, two great-grandsons, and finally, one great-granddaughter. Her biggest sorrow in life was the death of Lenore, her youngest daughter, and Joyce, her twin. One of her biggest joys was her group of high school girlfriends who have nurtured their friendships for over 70 years.

Jim and Janis celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary the day before she died. Her funeral will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, June 30, 2022, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 919 E. Indiana Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 — the same church she was married in. Reception to follow.

Please visit Janis’ online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com