Obituaries

Dear Kessenich family, I'm sorry for your loss. I was surfing the web and accidentally found this. I was an international student at UW-Madison in early 2000's and got to know Pete and Jane through the Madison Friends of International Students. Pete and Jane welcomed me to their family. Pete was then into photography and it was always a great time to look through his pictures of nature (birds in particular) while chatting with Jane at their home. Pete passed away in 2003 as a result of a surgery complication. Jane was devasted but she bravely carried on many things that Pete did not get to finish. I used to think Americans are all like Pete and Jane. Over the years, I have realized that they are extraordinary human being. They saw people as people, beyond their race, ethnicity or economic background. They led their lives with such passion and compassion and anyone who got to know them are lucky. I will forever remember them.

My family had the good fortune to get to know and love Pete, Jane, and their children when we lived down the street in Waukegan, IL. My wife and I also were able to meet them at their charming B&B years ago. We remember Pete and Jane cackling with joy when they gave us little wooden puzzles to figure out - and we couldn't... Such a charming and warm lady - there are a few people who stick out in one's memory as vibrant personalities, and Jane was definitely one of them. Sorry for your loss.

Dear Kessenich family, My Auntie Jane was an inspiration to all of the Piper's. Growing up I will never forget the family picnics at the Kessenich's in Monona Village, (who could forget her Cowboy Beans, often imitated but never duplicated). Sorry we could not be there to celebrate Auntie Jane's life. She will surely be missed by all. Rest In Peace. All our Love, Louie (Jim), Debbie Piper and family.

My sympathy and condolences go to the entire Kessenich family. Pete and Jane Kessenich were my dear friends over the last 40 years. Sadly, we've shared in Pete's services, and now Jane is going home to comfort him. I take some comfort In receiving this sad news that Jane is now reunited with Pete and by his side as they once were. They both were shining examples of what a decent and loving human being should be. I have been blessed to have called them my friends, and one day we shall meet on the other side Godspeed Jane Vince Lomax

Jane and I worked together on the board of directors of the Friends of the Alicia Ashman Library. Jane's heartfelt appreciation of our donors always warmed me. She made a special point of recognizing contributions large and small, with special mention of those who "rounded up" their membership dues to make an extra financial donation to the library. I appreciated her dedication to the library's used book sales and her efforts to make them successful. I was very fortunate to know her. Diane Wilkinson

To the Kessenich family, I was very sorry to learn of the death of your mom, Jane. I knew her and your dad, Pete, through the Friendship Force of Wisconsin. I was on at least one trip with Jane. May the memories of the happy times you shared with her, help to sustain you during this difficult time. She will be remembered for her many years of spunk and dedication to the Friendship Force. In friendship, Ariel Hicklin Ford

Jane was a tremendous teacher and support when I first joined the Friends of the Ashman Library. A dynamic leader, she was both the Book Sales and Membership Chairs and guided all of us in our efforts. Small in stature but large in enthusiasm and know-how, Jane was a force for the growth of the Friends.

I'm so very sorry for all of your loss. Great Auntie Jane was such an amazing and inspiring woman who showed us all so much love and kindness over the years. Her and Pete greatly impacted me and my life. I am so very sorry I won't be able to attend the service but I'm sending all my love and thoughts to you all. Jaime Stebbins (Sandra Piper's daughter)

Our dear Auntie Jane, my dad's favorite sister. You never had to worry about carrying-on a conversation with her - such a joy to be around. I am so thankful that I recently had the privilege of her company. She will be missed.

Dear Kessenich family, I'm sorry for your loss. I have the fondest memories of you A life well lived and well loved is truly amazing and wonderful. Best to all. Dan Atkins.

Love and peace to all of you. Jane will be physically missed though she is still with all she shared a part of her long life with...do enjoy Flag Day and the gathering of your family.