Janice "Jan" Knott

Janice M. “Jan” Knott, 80, of Cochrane, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026.

She was born to George and Helen (Hunger) Bork on December 23,1945 and lived a life full of sharing love and memories with all she knew.

Janice truly embodied the meaning of a strong work ethic. She was happiest when she was busy, especially at the family businesses she shared with her husband, Norm. Whether she was serving drinks, fixing the bowling machines in the Alley Cat, or making pizzas for her local patrons, Janice gave every task her full heart. To generations of young and old alike, she became affectionately known as the “pizza lady”. But to those who knew her best, she was so much more than that. She had a familiar face, a helping hand, a listening ear, and a friend. Janice and Norm cherished the laughter, stories, and lifelong friendships that grew from the establishments they built together.

Janice had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome and loved, and everyone seemed to love her right back. She was a giver to a fault, always willing to lend a hand or help someone in need. She never judged a person by where they came from or how long she had known them. Whether you were a lifelong friend, or a stranger, Janice treated you with the same kindness, compassion, and genuine care. She always looked for the good in people and believed there was something worthwhile in everyone.

Janice also had a wonderful sense of humor and a mischievous streak. Those who knew her well knew there was one thing she stood behind without hesitation – the Minnesota Vikings. She proudly remained a Vikings fan through thick and thin and took great pleasure in teasing the local die-hard Packers fans. Her playful spirit and quick wit brought smiles and laughter to countless gatherings and conversations.

She leaves behind not only a family who adored her, but also a community of friends, patrons, and loved ones who will remember her kindness, her laughter, her generosity, and the way she made people feel.

Janice is survived by her loving husband, Norm; children, John (Barb) Przybylski, Jerry (Jessie) Przybylski, Buffy Knott, and Jackie (Knott) Lenz; her grandchildren, Tyler Przybylski, Ashley Przybylski, Nico Przybylski, Bradly Knott, Samantha Knott, Ryan Lenz, Jaiden Lenz, Cody Lenz and Kanon Lenz; her siblings, Janie Service and Marlen Rolbiecki; her sister-in-law, Shirley Bork; her special foster grandchildren, Brent, Jason, Russel, Sandy, Franky, Aaron, Tayden, Adreian, Peter, Jake and Mathew; along with many nieces, nephews, friends and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Mike Bork; her brothers-in-law, Mark Rolbiecki and Gaylord Service; and her nephew, Ronnie Rolbiecki.

A Memorial Service will be held at 6:00PM on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Talbot Family Funeral Home, Alma Chapel with Chaplain Gary Preston, S.A.M., officiating. A visitation will be from 3:00 PM until the hour of the service. Following the Service, all are invited to the Cochrane VFW Post 10406 to further celebrate the life of Jan.

A committal service will be held on Thursday, September 10 at 2:00 PM at Buffalo City Cemetery