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Janet M Salis

Date of Death: June 22, 2025

Date of Birth: November 18, 1954

Biography:

Jan Salis, 70, formerly of Poland ME passed away on June 22 following a lengthy illness.  She was born on November 18, 1954, and grew up in Broadview, Illinois, a Chicago suburb.  She was active with women’s sports during her school years, especially the swimming team.  She maintained lifelong friendships with several of her school classmates.

Jan earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater in 1976 and a Master of Science from Indiana State University in 1979 graduating Magna Cum Laude.  In 1979 she earned her certification as a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) from the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA).  Being certified prior to 1980, she was one of the Pioneer Women of the NATA.  These are women who helped to pave the way for future female participation in the field of athletic training.  During the early 80’s, she utilized her ATC skills in working with the U.S. Women’s Olympic Handball team travelling with them for all their competition in the US and Europe.  She was inducted into the Maine NATA Hall of Fame in 2019.

In 1980 Jan joined the Athletic Training staff at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, inspiring many athletes to achieve their best.  It was during this time that she decided to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy to continue to advance her knowledge and skills.  She graduated from the University of New England Physical Therapy program in 1987 Summa Cum Laude. During her time as a PT student at UNE, she became the university’s first Athletic Trainer.  Jan also mentored classmates and other students creating UNE's first student trainer program paving the way for a comprehensive sports medicine presence to cover the growing needs of the athletic programs. 

During her PT career, Jan worked as a Staff PT for Granite Hill Physical Therapy, Director of Physical Therapy at Stephens Memorial Hospital, and Staff PT at Central Maine Medical Center.  Among her many professional activities, she was past President of the Maine Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, Volunteer with the Maine Concussion Management Initiative, and a member of the UNE Alumni Association. 

Jan’s favorite activities included golfing and kayaking during the summer.  Most of all she enjoyed long walks along the shores of Tripp Lake with her yellow labs:  Abbey, Aspen, and Georgie Girl.

Jan is predeceased by her parents Charlotte and John Salis. She is survived by many close friends across the country. Friends will gather to remember Jan at a future date.  Interment will be near her parents at Mt. Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst, IL

Jan’s friends would like to acknowledge the incredible compassionate care provided by the staff at Marshwood Care Center in Lewiston and Beacon Hospice.  Donations in memory of Jan can be made to: The Dempsey Center, Lewiston, Maine www.dempseycenter.org or Mission Working Dogs in Oxford, Maine  www.missionworkingdogs.org 

Arrangements are through Funeral Alternatives, Lewiston, Maine www.funeralalternatives.com