Janice Claire Kane of Rumson passed away April 21, 2025, after a brief illness.
Janice was born in 1936 in Queens, New York. She 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 and 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. They found their dream home in Rumson – 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, Florida. 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 her memory will be cherished forever.
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; Stephen and Jennifer Kane and their daughters, Chrissy, Caroline and Lauren.
A memorial visitation was held April 28 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A memorial Mass was held April 29 at Church of the Nativity, Fair Haven.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38101 or stjude.org.
The article originally appeared in the May 1 – 7, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
