It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the sudden passing of Janet “Penny” Lape, age 75. Penny was born in Jersey City, the first of four children to David and Janet Rowland. She was a life-long resident of Monmouth County.
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 graduated from Red Bank Regional High School Class of 1964 and earned a degree in psychology from The University of Pittsburgh. While at college she met David Muccini. They married and created the true love of her life and only child Samantha.
Penny spent over 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 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.
Penny was predeceased by her husband of 32 years Gene Lape; her brother Larry Rowland; and sister JoAnn Rowland. Surviving are her daughter Samantha Muccini; son-in-law Joe Calandra; granddaughter Addison Calandra; and brother David (Buffy) J. Rowland Jr.
A church service and remembrance were held May 14 at the Presbyterian Church in Shrewsbury. Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank, has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the May 19 – 25, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
