Janis Pulsifer Fishman, 89, of Princeton, passed peacefully on Friday, March 29, 2024, in her home with her loving daughter by her side.

Known affectionately as the "turtle lady" in her community, Jan found joy in her lifelong pursuit of caring for water and land turtles, growing to over one hundred of these beloved creatures. Over the years, her reputation also grew for her unique ability to aid injured turtles and her willingness to provide them with a loving home. Local elementary schools invited her as the community turtle lady for Show & Tell. Jan also hosted students at her home to see her diverse collection of turtles. She leaves behind a small group of turtles, some of whom have been with her for over 40 years. Her passion for the natural world extended to her living room, which was adorned with freshwater fish tanks. To friends, she would often say, "Come over, we can watch fishy-vision together." Jan also had a deep affection for her feline companions, particularly Beaux, her last cat. To her, they were all cherished family members.

A graduate f Cornell University, Jan supported herself through college by working nights and weekends as a server for campus sororities. She pursued a degree in horticulture with the dream of owning her own floral shop one day. Although she did not realize this dream, she found fulfillment in gardening, where she indulged her love for trees, plants, and flowers. After retiring, she worked part-time at Wildflowers of Princeton Junction, where she found pride in her creative talents and cherished the friendships she formed with the "flower shop guys," Michael, Eddie and Riley.

Following graduation, Janis embarked on a career in technology, a bold choice for a woman in the 1950s. Despite the male-dominated nature of the field, she remained steadfast and became a respected computer consultant, spending four decades in the profession while calling Princeton her home. While working full-time and raising a family, Jan's delight for her turtles and gardening also included being an exquisite seamstress from making dresses to ball gowns to a man's silk suit.

In the 1970's, there was a drastic increase in home tax assessments affecting many in the community, Jan became an advocate and educator, voicing the concerns of those on fixed incomes at town hall meetings. She only became involved in causes that held deep personal meaning to her.

In her later years, Jan became an active member of the local chapter of P.E.O., finding purpose in its mission and cherishing the friendships she formed with her fellow Sisters. It was a special time for Jan, as she found herself among women of intellect, compassion, and unique talents.

Janis was a kind and gentle listener exhibiting no judgment and sharing advice in the most thoughtful manner. This will be a cherished gift for many.

Janis Fishman is predeceased by her late husband, Herbert Fishman. Janis is survived by her daughter, Sarah Fishman Mertz; granddaughter, Laura Mertz; sister-in-law, Joyce Fishman; nephew, Doron Fishman; niece, Eileen Nalda; her dear friends Brenda, Audrey, Jane, Charles, Elaine and her loyal caregiver, Lida.

A celebration of Jan's life will take place on Saturday, June 8 at 10am in the common area of Christ Congregation, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton https://www.ccprinceton.org/.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in memory to Jan to P.E.O., a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.

Memorial contributions can be made to the P.E.O. Foundation, c/o P.E.O. International Sisterhood, 3700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312 or https://www.peointernational.org/