Obituaries

Slide background Image layer

Janet Scopas

September 21, 1940 - October 24, 2024

Life Legacy

Janet Ann Vallow Scopas, born on September 21, 1940, in Colorado Springs, CO, took her final bow on October 24, 2024, at the age of 84 in her daughter’s home in Hayward, CA. An emblem of balance, Janet led a life filled with both vigor and responsibility, amassing cherished memories that will continue to inspire those she left behind.At a young age, Janet and her family moved to Burbank, CA, and she eventually settled in Manteca, CA. She fulfilled a promise to her father by graduating from Burbank High School in 1958, setting off the next night to begin her roller derby career as Jan Vallow. Her natural talent and passion for skating paved the way for a distinguished career spanning four decades, where she showcased her skills across the U.S., Australia, Japan, and Canada. Known for her mastery of the five-stride and effortless technique, Janet’s prowess earned her Roller Derby rookie of the year in 1958, Roller Derby Queen in 1963, MVP in 1972, mentor to many skaters, and a place in the National Roller Derby Hall of Fame in 2006—a testament to her enduring legacy.

In 1959, Janet married fellow skater Nick Scopas, and their union was blessed with two children, Tracy in 1961 and Nick Jr. in 1964. 

Following the decline of roller derby's prominence in the early 1970s, Janet joined Pacific Gas and Electric. Her intellect and perseverance elevated her through the ranks, ultimately leading to her position as the supervisor of PG&E's electric meter shop. She dedicated 20 years to the company, also setting an example for her children as they, too, pursued careers at PG&E.

Janet's heart swelled with pride when it came to her family. Her children, Tracy Munoz and Nick Scopas Jr., and grandchildren—Sonya, Stephanie, Mark Jr, and Alexandra—along with her great-granddaughter Trinity were her greatest accomplishments. She instilled in them the values she held dear and loved spending time with them, especially watching her grandchildren at their sporting events and dance performances.

A prominent red-shirt roller derby skater and favorite villain, Janet captivated the hearts of fans and peers alike with her formidable presence on the track, yet off the track, she was known for her loving nature and quick wit. Her connection to the roller derby community remained unbroken, as she attended reunions with old friends and fans alike, sharing stories from a life wonderfully lived.

Preceded in death by her parents, John Francis Vallow and Janet Vallow, and her brother William Vallow, Janet leaves behind cherished memories with her siblings John and Gary Vallow.

Janet’s life, filled with intelligence, humor, and devotion, will be celebrated on Saturday, November 16, 2024. A memorial service will take place at Grissom's Chapel, 267 E. Lewelling Blvd., San Lorenzo, CA, from 2pm-4pm, with a memorial service at 3pm. The family invites attendees to a memorial gathering at Harry's Hofbrau, 14900 E. 14th Street, San Leandro, CA, at 5pm to continue sharing memories and love for Janet.

To all who knew our beloved Janet, we thank you for the love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. A special thank you extends to Sherry and Mark Sr., for their care and love for Janet.

Care has been entrusted to Grissom's Mortuary. 

Contact Us

Grissom's Chapel & Mortuary Inc.

267 E. Lewelling Blvd.
San Lorenzo, CA 94580
Directions
(510) 278-2800

Grissom's Cremation & Burial Centers

9130-B Alcosta Blvd.
San Ramon, CA 94583
Directions
(925) 560-0800

Grissom's Crematory, Inc.

267 E. Lewelling Blvd.
San Lorenzo, CA 94580