Janis Tjader, 72, of Los Altos, passed away at home on November 26, 2025. Born in Glendale to Robert and Patricia Wright, Janis graduated from Upland High School and attended California State University, Chico. It was there that she earned a degree in Sociology and met her husband and partner of 49 years, Gary Tjader. She later earned her teaching credential and Master's degree in public school administration from San Jose State University.

For 23 years, Janis taught first and third grades at Oak School in Los Altos. She was known for a teaching style that balanced high expectations with genuine care. She held her students to high standards because she believed in them, while ensuring her classroom was always a place of laughter and safety. She was the heartbeat of the staff, famous for rallying teachers into Halloween costumes and organizing the district's "Amazing Race" games. She was named Teacher of the Year in 2014 and continued tutoring for a decade after retirement.

Beyond the classroom, Janis was a woman of vibrant interests. She celebrated her 50th birthday by skydiving and spent her free time tap dancing, skiing, and playing Mahjong. She possessed a mischievous energy that she never outgrew. Her family fondly remembers her as a "partner in crime" who was always ready for a laugh, whether she was planning a late-night prank on the neighbors or hunting for the perfect cinnamon roll in Maui. She found her peace in the islands of Hawaii and her greatest joy in being "Grandma" to her four grandchildren.

In her later years, Janis faced Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) with the same strength and dignity that defined her career. Even as her physical world grew smaller, she remained a steady and loving presence in the lives of her family.

Janis was preceded in death by her father, Robert Wright. She is survived by her mother, Patricia Wright; husband, Gary; children, Nicolaus Tjader and Katherine Rojas; sister, Susan Kurtz; brother, Peter Wright; and grandchildren Eli, Ari, Camila, and Leo.

The family will hold a private celebration of life. Per her wishes, the family will scatter her ashes in Hawaii. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Myositis Association ( myositis.org ).