Janet M. Greffrath Was Art Teacher for 40 Years

Janet M. (Shoemaker) Greffrath of 218 Reservoir street in Holden, a 30-year resident of Shrewsbury, died at home on Saturday, Dec. 17. She was 84 years old.

She was born in New York city, the daughter of Albert J. and Vida C. (Kraft) Shoemaker, and lived in Southboro and Shrewsbury before moving to Holden six years ago. She earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from the Pratt Institute, a master's degree in fine arts from New York University and a master of arts from Worcester State College.

Mrs. Greffrath was an art teacher for 40 years, most recently for the Shrewsbury public schools, retiring in 1988. She was a member of St. Mary's Church in Jefferson and a former member of St. Mary's Church in Shrewsbury. She also was a member of the Massachusetts and Shrewsbury Teachers Associations, member and past president of the Worcester Foundation for Experimental Biology, board member of the Shrewsbury Senior Center and Arts Council and member of the Holden Women's Club. In addition she served on the board of directors and visitors at the Washburn House.

Since 1987 she had enjoyed her summer home in Oak Bluffs. She was an avid bridge player, often playing while on the Island. She was also a member of the Cavendish Bridge Club in Worcester.

Mrs. Greffrath was predeceased by her husband of 25 years, Lewis B. Greffrath, in 1972.

She is survived by her son, Charles A. Greffrath, and his wife, Joan, of Worcester; two daughters, Nancy A. Stassi and her husband, John, of Holden and Janet M. (Peggy) Menegakis of Los Angeles, Calif.; five grandchildren, Elena, Michael and Peter Menegakis of Acton and Elisa and Drew Knapic of Holden; and cousins.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 20, at the Miles Funeral Home on 1158 Main street in Holden.

Memorial donations may be made to the Walk to Cure Cancer, University of Massachusetts Memorial Hospital, 55 Lake avenue north, Worcester, MA 01655.