The Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is mourning the passing of Deacon Thaddeus “Ted” Janisko.
The following is his formal obituary.
Rev. Deacon Thaddeus James, 80, passed away on January 8, 2026. Son of Anthony and Angeline (Trotz) Janisko, Johnstown.
Born October 15, 1945, in Johnstown.
Preceded in death by parents; and brothers, Ronald, Edward, Robert, and Richard. Survived by sister, Carole, wife of Dennis Kelly; daughter, Jacqueline, Clarion, PA; and five grandchildren.
Former member of St. Casmir and Emerich parish, Johnstown. Prior to ordination he served as usher, lector, eucharistic minister, pastoral council, and liturgy committees. Member of Holy Name and Nocturnal Adoration Societies and Legion of Mary.
Received his accounting diploma from Advance business Schools, Chicago, and was employed by Bethlehem Steel, Co.; Assistant Manager of GeeBee Dept. Store; owner of West End Produce; and 42 years of service with General Kinetics, Inc., where he seved as turn foreman for 12 years. Member of IBEW and served as Union Steward. He was a USAF Vietnam Era Veteran.
Received his diaconal formation at St. Francis University, Loretto; Mount Aloysius University, Cresson; and St. Vincent Seminary, Latrobe. Ordained a deacon on May 13, 1995, at Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona, by Bishop Joseph V. Adamec.
Served at St. Casmir parish, Johnstown, Holy Name parish, Hooversville, St. Mary’s and St. John Cantius parishes, Windber. He was currently assigned to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish, Windber.
Family will receive friends from 4:00 until the time of service at 6:00 on January 21, 2026, at Hindman Funeral Homes, 146 Chandler Avenue.
