Madison - Our beloved mother and matriarch, Jane Piper Kessenich, passed away peacefully in her home at All Saints Neighborhood Assisted Living in Madison on Saturday, June 8, 2024. She was six days away from her 93rd birthday. She dedicated her life to her family with boundless love. Known for her welcoming warmth and unwavering support, Jane was the heart and soul of our family.

Mom's home was always filled with stories of her travels and the many people she welcomed into her life over the years. She would regale us with tales of her adventures, visiting countries most of us only dream of seeing. One of her favorites was about her trip to Thailand, where she experienced the gentle hug of an elephant—a moment she cherished and shared with everyone she met. "You've never been hugged until you've been hugged by an elephant," she would say.

At home, her travels continued through her love for reading and hosting guests. Seated at her mother’s dining room table—a treasured piece with its own delightful history—Jane would voyage through the lives and life-journeys of her guests. Jane would prompt and encourage her guests to share their lives. She often remarked, "If that table could talk," reflecting on the diverse conversations and cultures represented around it.

Jane's passion for music began in her childhood when her father encouraged her to join the school band and orchestra. Although she was an accomplished cellist, her true love was the piano. In her later years, Jane spent countless hours practicing, often from breakfast until dinner, and performed for various local organizations.

Born on Madison's east side to Katherine Lotes and Charles Piper, Jane's youth was filled with grand adventures of a bygone era—walking to the ice skating and toboggan run at Olbrich Park. Her tales of falling in love with Pete, whose antics won her heart, were legendary. They shared 52 wonderful years together, raising their eight children across multiple states. Jane's family continued to grow, blessing her with fifteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Mom's love and compassion for others knew no bounds. Even in her final years at the care facility, she was always kind and loving to those who cared for her. Though short in stature, Jane's temperament was anything but.

Jane is preceded in death by her husband Pete, her children Nanette and Timothy and her grandchild Benjamin. Her life was a testament to the power of love and family. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched. We celebrate her life and the endless love she gave us.

Jane always took immense pride in her Flag Day birthday on June 14th. With a twinkle in her eye and a touch of wit, she would often tell people, "They put the flags up just for my birthday." This coming Friday, as you see flags proudly displayed, please take a moment to say a birthday wish for Jane, a woman whose life was as vibrant and celebrated as the day she was born.

A celebration of life and luncheon will be held at Olbrich Gardens (3330 Atwood Ave, Madison) on Flag Day Friday, June 14, 2024, from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, we invite contributions to The Goodman Center, honoring Jane's legacy.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

5701 Odana Road

608-274-1000

Jane Kessenich

June 14, 1931 - June 08, 2024

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