Lifelong Monmouth County resident, Red Bank Regional High School Class of 1964 graduate and loss and life adjustment counselor, Janet “Penny” Lape passed away suddenly at 75.

“Janet was known as ‘Penny’ to all who loved her, a nickname coined by her father who had lovingly declared: ‘She was the shiniest penny in the bunch.’ Eternally happy and upbeat, Penny was the embodiment of unconditional love. An amazing listener and caregiver who constantly put the needs of others before her own. Penny was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, Grammy, and friend. She was especially dedicated to her only granddaughter Addison; picking her up after school every day, singing along to the oldies with her in the car, and spending countless weekend sleepovers together. They were truly the best of friends …
Penny adored sunsets, the beach and shells, as well as waterfowl and seabirds of all kinds. She traveled extensively throughout the Caribbean, Spain, St. John, Portugal, and Florida enjoying long days on the beaches, bird watching and partaking
in the local cuisine.”

Loved ones of Penny Lape in her obituary

Born in Jersey City, she was the first of four children born to David and Janet Rowland. After graduating from Red Bank Regional High School in 1964, Penny earned a degree in psychology from The University of Pittsburgh.

Penny spent more than 20 years in the mental health field specializing in short-term therapy for those experiencing loss and other life adjustment issues. During her career, she founded the New Jersey chapters of Make Today Count and Shell of Hope, two therapy programs dedicated to helping patients and families cope with cancer, terminal illness, and traumatic loss.

Penny was predeceased by: her husband of 32 years, Gene Lape; her brother, Larry Rowland, and sister JoAnn Rowland.

She is survived by: her daughter, Samantha Muccini and son-in-law Joe Calandra; granddaughter, Addison Calandra; and brother David (Buffy) J. Rowland Jr.

A church service and remembrance will be held at the Presbyterian Church, 352 Sycamore Avenue in Shrewsbury on Saturday, May 14, at 10 a.m.

— Edited obituary provided by family via Thompson Memorial Home

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