Janis Hope Charkow
1946 – 2024
Janis Hope Charkow, of East Windsor, NJ, passed away on November 28, 2024 at the age of 78. She was born in Annapolis, Maryland on September 9, 1946 to Beverly Kramer Zaino and Albert Zaino, and lived in Annapolis throughout her entire childhood. She graduated from Annapolis High School in 1964 and went on to American University. She earned her Bachelors’ of Science Degree in Business Administration in 1968, and met and married the love of her life, Bill Charkow, that same year.
Janis and Bill first lived in Laurel, Maryland, where they welcomed their son Andy in 1970. The family moved to Somerset, NJ in 1973, and shortly thereafter welcomed twin daughters Jill and Wendy in 1974. The family then moved to West Windsor, NJ in 1984. After many years of happiness on 18 Landing Lane, Janis and Bill relocated to their current residence in East Windsor, where Janis enjoyed an active retired life.
Janis was a lively and vibrant woman with many passions and interests. Her biggest passion was her family and friends. Janis’ favorite pastimes included playing bridge at a master level, mah jongg, numerous puzzles and word games, reading, traveling (especially to Italy and St. Martin), shopping, and enjoying celebrations, meals, and a good glass of wine with her loved ones.
Janis was truly one of a kind and admired by so many for her warm spirit, love for life, sharp wit, generosity, and attention to style. She had a magnetic and youthful personality, making friends wherever she went. Janis touched more lives than we can ever count and will be remembered and loved by so many.
Janis is survived by her husband Bill, three children and their spouses – Andy, Tara, Jill, Mike, Wendy, and Jonathan, and six adored grandchildren – Eli, Abby, Sophie, Luke, Bethany, and Jesse.
Funeral services will be held at 10:15 am on Sunday December 1st at Congregation Beth Chaim in West Windsor, NJ. Attendees are encouraged to wear bright colors in memory of Janis’ colorful personality. There will be a private graveside ceremony immediately following at Floral Park Cemetery in South Brunswick, NJ for family and close friends.
Memorial contributions are respectfully requested to your choice of charity supporting youth education and the relief of childhood hunger.
Arrangements are by Orland’s Ewing Memorial Chapel. OrlandsMemorialChapel.com/Janis-Charkow
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Charkow family. We will always remember the great times with Jamis
Joan and Norman Schwartz
Norm and I are so very saddened by the death of our friend.
Who is going to have brunch/lunch with me on Friday before majjong. No one can replace her
We will miss her.
Gaye and Norman Comite
Beautiful obituary for your mother. We have you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Janis was a unique and special person. We would often talk over coffee where we would share honest feelings, laugh about silly things and worry about what’s going on in the world.
She was responsible for telling me about the band “Pink Martini “ which was so much fun to see at Mcarter.
We will miss her.
Although we are out of town, we send our condolences to the Charkow family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you!
So sorry to hear about your loss. We always remember your mom with a huge smile on her face…May her memory be for a blessing
DEAR BILL AND FAMILY. OUR HEART FILLED PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
A good read! A good life! Billy, kids and families – my deepest condolences.