Janet O'Connor

Janet O'Connor passed away on October 25, 2026, in Moscow, Idaho. She was born on November 29, 1943, in Pendelton, Oregon.

Janet spent her early years in Pendelton before moving to Troy when she was 4 years old. She graduated from Troy High School and continued her education at Boise School of Business Administration and later at Mr. Leon's School of Hair Design. After Graduating from Mr. Leon’s she became a well known beautician in several different hair salons in Moscow until her retirement.

On June 27, 1964, she married Bill Knapik, and together they had three children, Rex, Lee, and Deanna. After Bill’s passing in 1997, Janet met Jim O'Connor, and they were married in 1998. Their marriage brought her to Moscow, where she made her home. After Jim’s passing in 2014, she moved back to Troy. Later in life Janet rekindled an old flame from her time in Boise and she reconnected with Tom Loretan whom she remained with until her passing.

In her younger years, Janet enjoyed horseback riding and playing in the high school band. She loved watching her children and grandchildren play sports, and she also enjoyed dancing. Janet was a member of TOPS and served as a Cub Scout den mother. She was active in the Troy Historical Society, Quilts of Valor, Wreaths Across America, and St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Moscow.

Above all, Janet treasured her family. She is survived by her son, Rex Knapik, and her daughter, Deanna Knapik and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill Knapik and Jim O’Connor;her son Lee Knapik by her parents, Charles and Ruby Umbarger; by her brother, Lael Umbarger; and by her sisters, Valetta Burt and Carolyn Kay.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a viewing on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Short’s Funeral Chapel, 1225 East 6th Street, Moscow, Idaho. A rosary will be held that evening from 6:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 618 East 1st Street, Moscow, Idaho. A Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church followed by a burial at Beulah Cemetery in Troy. A Reception will be held at the St. Mary’s Family Center following.

Janet will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her steady involvement in her community, and the joy she found in the people and activities she loved.

In lieu of flowers memorial in Janets memory can be sent to the Troy Historical Society at 421 S Main St, Troy, ID 83871