Janet Stock passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, in Arcata at the age of 73. Having battled complications from multiple sclerosis and bowel disease, she met her final days with a surprising sense of joy and positivity. Surrounded by a devoted circle of caregivers and friends, Janet approached the end of her life with a grace that those close to her described as truly refreshing.
Born in Logan, Utah, Janet grew up across several states before finding her calling in child psychology and social work at the University of Utah. However, her journey was marked by a constant evolution of interests. After moving to San Francisco in 1975 with her brother Douglas, she immersed herself in physical disciplines ranging from ballet and jazz dance to earning a brown belt in karate and discovering the meditative power of yoga. This curiosity extended into her professional life, where she transitioned from corporate roles in fundraising and law toward a lifelong commitment to holistic wellness.
For over three decades, Janet dedicated herself to women’s health. In 1997, she played a pivotal role in establishing an innovative maternity massage practice at a prominent San Francisco hospital, blending Western medicine with Eastern healing traditions she encountered during her travels to places like China. When she eventually split her time between the city and Arcata starting in 2008, she expanded her reach further through Humboldt Mobile Massage, providing essential comfort to seniors and cancer patients throughout the region.
Beyond her clinical work, Janet found sanctuary in the wild landscapes of Northern California. An avid nature lover and skilled photographer, she spent years documenting native plants for galleries in San Francisco and participating in legendary bird counts across the state. Whether backpacking annually to Snags Lake or watching hawks in the Marin Headlands, Janet lived for the outdoors. She is buried at Trinidad Cemetery, and family members invite friends to celebrate her vibrant spirit at a potluck gathering on April 25, 2027, at Trinidad Town Hall.
