Janice Weast

Janice Weast, 85, passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on September 14, 2018 following a long battle with ovarian cancer. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Bob Weast, daughters Janine Weast Searcy (Tom) and Karen Weast Kellerman (Brian); her grandchildren Porter Searcy (Emily) and their son Colin; Taylor Searcy (Karen) and daughter Lailai; and Devonna Searcy and daughter Naomi; Bryce Kellerman (Haley), Brad Kellerman and Kristie Kellerman. She also leaves behind her beloved Wheaten Terrier, Laddie. She is preceded in death by her parents, William P. McConnell and Evelyn Rearick McConnell, and brother Harry McConnell. Janice Faith McConnell was born on May 30, 1933 in Washington DC. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music in Piano in 1954 and two Master’s degrees at Drake University – one in Piano Performance and the other in Elementary Education. For 21 years, she was a third grade teacher at Finley and then Greenwood Elementary Schools in Des Moines, Iowa. Janice was an accomplished pianist and dedicated her talents for almost 30 years to Holy Trinity and St. Augustine Catholic Churches, The Des Moines Choral Society, and countless weddings and funeral services in the community. Janice was passionate about gardening and wildlife preservation and created beautiful flower gardens throughout her yard. She and Bob also set aside property to the National Wildlife Federation. She loved animals and raised many throughout her life. Visitation is scheduled at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Beaverdale Ave, on Monday, September 17, 5:30-7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Tuesday, September 18 at 10:00 AM with a reception to follow. The family would like to thank special friends Tom and Karen Quiner for their love and support during Janice’s illness, Dr. Behrens and the staff at Unity Point Cancer Center, Unity Point Hospice, and the extended Holy Trinity community of friends.