Janet M. Bachinski, 79, of Portage, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Community Hospital in Munster. She was born on October 13, 1946, in Gary, to the late Charles and Helen (Siget) Bachinski. 

Janet is survived by her brothers, Ronald (Carol) Bachinski of Waxahachie, TX, and Charles Bachinski of Lincoln, NE; special cousin, Lea (Bruce) Campbell of Valparaiso, IN; and many nieces and nephews. 

Janet was a 1964 graduate of Lew Wallace High School. She went on to receive her Bachelor’s in Education from Evangel University in 1968 and her Master’s in Education from Purdue University in 1974. Janet was then employed for 39 years at Polk School in Lake Station as a second grade teacher. 

In accordance with Janet’s wishes, cremation has been chosen. Services for Janet will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN 46410, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and a memorial service to follow at 12:00 PM. Burial will take place after Janet’s services at Calumet Park Cemetery, 2305 West 73rd Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410.