Remembering Janisch, Pettey
In Memory is dedicated to YVC alumni, faculty and staff who have passed away. It offers a place where the YVC community can remember friends and loved ones.
Alen Janisch
Business Technology Instructor
Alen Janisch passed away August 24 in his home in Yakima. Alen was the only child of Elwell Janisch (Al), and Hilma Janisch (Andersen). He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1972 and went on to graduate from the University of Washington.
Alen dabbled in real estate out of college, but his true passion was education. He taught music before moving to Yakima and joining the faculty at Yakima Valley College. He started a program at the college called “Rodeo Drive,” where students could find high end clothing for their job interviews. He found a wonderful community and had many friends and students whom he impacted.
Alen will be remembered for his joyful presence and caring heart. He will be missed by many.
Jeanette Pettey
College and Career Readiness Instructor
Janette Lynn Pettey, 59, of Zillah died Saturday, Oct. 29, in Yakima. Pettey started as an adjunct instructor at YVC in 2013, but quickly moved to full-time faculty in 2015. In her relatively short time in the division, she had a huge impact. As a result of her collaborative nature, she served as liaison with the English department to support the management of co-enrolled students. She maintained all the updates to procedures in the CCR faculty Canvas shell. She was a leader in technology for the division, often being the one to establish procedures for implementing new digital tools and training other faculty on them. She also was an innovator in identifying ways to accelerate the progress of Adult Basic Education students on their paths to a diploma. We will miss her calm demeanor, her caring heart, and endless support to her friends and colleagues.
