Obituaries

In Memoriam: Longtime Rumsonite Janice Kane

Longtime Rumsonite Janice Claire Kane passed away on Monday, April 21, after a brief illness. 

Born in 1936 in Queens, NY, Janice fondly remembered her childhood as a self described “city girl, able to navigate any destination in New York City— often while wearing her treasured roller skates.”

She graduated from Bishop McDonnell Memorial High School and attended St. John’s University. Janice had a wonderful experience at St. John’s, where she blossomed into a beautiful, charming, and intelligent young woman. She was thrilled to be crowned “Miss St. John’s” of 1956, a tremendous honor at the time, recognized by many local New York newspapers. It was at St. John’s that Janice met the love of her life, the man who would become her husband of 52 years, Tom. 

“Janice and Tom began their married life in 1960. They grew their family quickly, welcoming six children. It was in Rumson that they found their dream home — an aging seashore colonial that seemed to call for an active young family and the loving, restorative touch that only Janice could provide. She devoted herself to creating a home that was warm and inviting, where her family could thrive and guests were always welcome. 

“Janice was a woman of many interests and talents. She enjoyed playing tennis and golf, and was a highly sought-after bridge partner. She was a member of the Rumson Country Club, the Monmouth Beach Bath and Tennis Club, and a former member of the John’s Island Club of Vero Beach, FL. A skilled and committed gardener, she took great pride in the colorful plantings that adorned her yard. Her Halloween decorations — both inside and outside the house — were a yearly highlight. She also loved Christmas, for which she had even more impressive decor. She showered her beloved golden retrievers, Annie and Tate, with constant love and affection. 

“Janice was a passionate chef, often spending hours in the kitchen preparing prodigious five-course meals worthy of a Michelin Star. Holiday dinners and summer barbecues were plentiful feasts — warm, personal expressions of her boundless energy and deep affection for her family and friends. 

“Janice was the bedrock of unwavering love and support for her family. Nothing was more important to her than the health, happiness, and well-being of her husband, children, and grandchildren. She believed that life is a gift to be lived with a smile on your face and peace in your heart — anything less was not acceptable. She was loved beyond measure, and we will cherish her memory forever.” 

Loved ones of Janice Kane in her obituary

Janice was predeceased by: her loving husband, Tom; her parents, George and Helen Conroy (née Ryan); and her sister, Maureen Hands.

She is survived by: her six children and their families, Maureen and Jeff Kaltenbach and their children, Stephen, Katherine, Beth, and Matthew; Tom and Carol Kane and their children, Kendall, Courtney, and Peter; Michael Kane and Jessica Diaz; Danny and Wendy Kane and their children, Katie, Megan, and Ryan; Kathleen Kane and her sons, Tommy, Jack, and Brian Lawler; and Stephen and Jennifer Kane and their daughters, Chrissy, Caroline, and Lauren. 

A memorial visitation will be held Monday, April 28, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St., Red Bank, NJ 07701.  A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, April 29, at 11 a.m. at Church of the Nativity, 181 Ridge Rd., Fair Haven, NJ 07704. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101. 

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home