Janet Louise Nicholson age 66, proud member of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, whose life was spent in service to the her nation, passed away in Elmer City, Washington Tuesday morning August 25, 2020 surrounded by her loving family. Born Saturday, August 21, 1954 in Nespelem, Washington to Isaac & Marie Covington–Wak Wak, Janet was baptized into the Catholic Church, was a member of Seven Drums – “Washaat,” and American Legion Post 114 of Nespelem, Washington. First employed by the tribal government at age 14 years; Janet went on to work for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, The OST - Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians and finally for two years on the Colville Business Council. When not reading a good book or watching one of her three favorite teams: “New York Yankees”, “LA Lakers” and “Lake Roosevelt Raiders,” Janet enjoyed traveling to new places, celebrating Pow-Wows, cheering on her grandchildren at sporting events, bowling and as her family knew so well…stopping at every garage sale! Janet’s greatest love though was always the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by both of her parents; daughter: Dawn Nicholson and siblings: Johnny Wak Wak, Phillip Wak Wak, Penny Gregario, Shirley Wak Wak, Marie Condon, Earl Comedown, Joe Wak Wak, Nancy Wak Wak and Wally Wak Wak. Janet’s legacy lives on through her children: William Nicholson II, Buffy Nicholson (Shannon) and Robert Lonebear II; grandchildren: Trey Nicholson, Tyson Nicholson, Parker Nicholson, Cora Nicholson, Claire Nicholson and John Nicholson; siblings: Eliza Palmer, Pearl Sammaripa, Isaac Wak Wak, Sam Wak Wak, Joan Sammaripa and Nina Wak Wak as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Due to the Covid-19 situation, a small gathering of Janet’s family took place on Wednesday, August 26, 2020, followed with her burial in the Little Nespelem Cemetery of Nespelem, Washington. Janet’s family sincerely hopes to hold a public celebration of her life in the coming year, when all those whom Janet’s life touched can come together and share.

Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, Washington is assisting her family.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.stratefuneral.com for Janet’s family.