Janet (Sanka) Best

Janet Best, of Jefferson Hills, passed away on August 20, 2025, at the age of 82.

She was born on November 26, 1942 to the late John and Veronica (Noroski) Sanka of Munhall, PA. She was the wife of the late David H. Best of 57 years.

Janet was employed by Carnegie Natural Gas Company, Subsidiary of USS, for 35 years. Her hobbies included gardening and golf, but her passion was the love she acquired for Japanese flower arranging (Ikebana); she was an Associate Master in the Ichiyo School of Ikebana and past President and Treasurer of Ikebana International Pittsburgh Chapter 25.

She enjoyed teaching and giving workshops, and exhibiting her work at Phipps Conservatory and other locations in and around Pittsburgh. She also studied the Japanese culture through her travels to Japan and deeply treasured the friendships she shared through Ikebana.

Janet is also survived by her sister, Loretta Terrick; nephew, Jeffrey (Nicole) Smith; great-nephew, Caden Smith; and 6 other nieces and nephews. She also treasured her lifetime friends, Beverly and Cliff Hines, and Angie Hines; and 6 dogs who were family members throughout the years. The family extends a special thank you to the caregivers with 365 Hospice for their unwavering support.

At her request, there will be a Memorial Visitation on Saturday, August 30, 10 AM - 12 Noon at the SAVOLSKIS-WASIK-GLENN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3501 Main Street, Munhall, PA 15120. A Funeral Mass will follow at 12 Noon at the St. Therese of Lisieux Church of the St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Munhall. Inurnment at Richland Cemetery, Dravosburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Ichiyo School of Ikebana (Ichiyo School c/o Lauren Mangino, Butler Country Club, 310 Country Club Road, Butler, PA 16002) or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org). Condolences may be left at www.swgfuneralhome.com.

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