I met Janet at HNI many years ago and while I never has the opportunity to work with her directly, I admired her very much for the success she achieved. She always made me laugh when I spoke to her.
I tell this story about Janet all the time, so I want to share it with you. As you may know parking at HNI buildings is brutal. And the office members were always complaining that the factory members parked in the front lot, and that they should park in their lot saving those spaces for office members. In variable someone complained about this to the president of the company every time we had a member meeting. The last time I heard this complaint was during the question-and-answer portion of our member meeting when the President of the company Jerry Dittmer asked Janet to stand up. I'm sure she was thinking what the heck...why am I being asked to stand up. Well Jerry pointed out that Janet always had the best parking spot, first row right next to the walkway. Then he asked her what time she came to work, and she replied about six. He then announced to everyone that was the way to get the best parking spot and that most days she had a better spot then he did and that he hoped this would be the last time he addressed this issue. Those of us that knew Janet had a good chuckle and congratulated her later for setting the parking bar high.
I will always remember her is telling me how much her family meant to her especially her nieces and nephews. My thoughts are with you Mrs. Homewood as no mother should lose a child. Please know that many of us at HNI are thinking of your family at this time and hope that your memories of Janet will bring you joy in the day to come.
Sincerely,
Shellie Abraham
