Obituary of Janice L. Kohlmeier

Janice L. Kohlmeier, 81, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and a life lived with joy and purpose. Born December 22, 1944, in Salamanca, NY, Janice was the cherished daughter of Leo and Doris (McLaughlin) Kohlmeier. She later moved with her family to Wayland, NY, where she graduated from Wayland High School before pursuing her calling in nursing. After earning her Diploma in Nursing, she moved to Rochester, NY, and devoted her career to caring for others through roles in private practice, St. Mary’s Hospital, and Highland Hospital. Jan lived life to the fullest. Her compassion extended far beyond her work as a nurse. She was a proud docent at the Seneca Park Zoo, where she delighted in sharing her love of animals—especially elephants—with visitors of all ages. Her appreciation for the natural world was matched by her creative spirit. She found joy in gardening, quilting, crocheting, and camping, each hobby reflecting her love of beauty, craft, and the outdoors. An avid reader, Jan treasured her book club gatherings, where stories sparked conversation and connection. She loved to dance and sing, filling moments with music, laughter, and light. Her adventurous heart carried her across the world—traveling to Ireland, Italy, London, and Manitoba, Canada, where she fulfilled a dream of seeing polar bears in their natural habitat. Most recently, she traveled to Tennessee to visit Graceland and experience the Grand Ole Opry, adding yet another joyful memory to a life rich with them. Above all, Jan cherished her family. Time spent with her daughters and grandchildren was her greatest joy, and she embraced every moment with them—whether celebrating milestones or simply sharing everyday life. Her love for them was steady, deep, and unmistakable. Jan was predeceased by her parents, Leo and Doris Kohlmeier; her baby brother, Jimmy; her sister, Carol Smith; and her nephew, Brit Smith Jr. She is survived by her daughters Kim (Mike) Perico of South Carolina, Sue (Jim) Walker of North Chili, NY, and Sharon (Chris) Butcher of Rochester, NY; her grandchildren Leanne (Daniel) Re, Hanna Walker, Brinley Butcher, and Rebecca Butcher; and her nephew Sean (Heidi) Smith of Washington. Jan’s family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, 206 Fremont St., Wayland, NY 14572. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Seneca Park Zoo at www.SenecaParkZoo.org. Her family finds comfort in the spirit of a song she loved — a reminder of the way she lived her life with courage, hope, and an open heart. “When you get the choice to sit it out or dance… I hope you dance.” May her memory continue to inspire all who knew her to embrace new beginnings, trust in faith, and meet life’s moments with the same joy and wonder she carried so naturally.