Janet Belak Lake

Schenectady – Janet Belak Lake, 89, a lifelong Schenectady resident, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, August 24, 2025.
Born in Schenectady, she was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Philomena (Cashera) Bacchi. Janet was a 1955 graduate of Nott Terrace High School. In 1970, she became one of the original employees hired by Capital District Off-Track Betting, where she proudly worked as a cashier for 23 years. Her role required honesty and integrity—qualities Janet was well known for throughout her life.
A devoted member of St. Anthony’s Church, Janet’s faith was central to her. She was also a constant caregiver, especially to her mother, always putting others before herself. Family was the heart of her world—she was a loving mother, grandmother, and aunt who cherished time spent with those she loved.
Janet enjoyed shopping, working on puzzles, and watching old movies. Her warmth, and quiet strength will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew her.
She was predeceased by her beloved husbands, Woodrow “Woody” Lake, Jay Belak and Earl DeCrosta; siblings, with whom she shared a special closeness—Louis Bacchi, Mary Visco, Edward Bacchi, Doris Latorra, and infant sister Janet; and her stepdaughter, Linda Lake.
Survivors include her cherished children; Lawrence (Erin) Belak, Linda (Mark, Sr.) Christopher, and Keith (Susan) Belak; her stepchildren, Kelly (Rich) Olson, and Stormy (Karmar) Lake; 17 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews who will hold her memory close to their hearts.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 am at St. Anthony’s Church. Relatives and friends are invited and may call at St. Anthony’s Church on Thursday, from 9 am until the Mass. Interment will follow in Park View cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Janet’s memory to St. Anthony’s Church or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at stjude.org.