Janice Eileen McDonald

Feb 19, 1943 -

Mar 21, 2024

Janice Eileen McDonald, beloved mother, sister, aunt, friend and cherished member of the Anchorage community, peacefully passed away in Encinitas, Calif., on March 21, 2024, at the age of 81. Janice had eternal optimism for her ability to recover from her many health challenges up until the very end. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love and spirit of generosity that will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

Born on Feb. 19, 1943, in Orange County, Calif., Janice was a third generation Californian and the daughter of Anita and John Kane. Later in life she adopted Anchorage, Alaska, as her home for over 25 years. In Anchorage, she joined her two younger sisters, Joanne Kaiser and Terri (Dick) Humphrey, who had moved to Alaska many years prior.

Janice was an avid reader from a young age, enjoyed writing poetry for people, playing bridge, riding a bike, crocheting, cooking, celebrating birthdays, volunteering in the community and supporting the arts. She loved her job tremendously as a social worker. Social work gave her the space to open her heart fully to people in need, especially children. Janice was most proud of her work at Providence Children's Hospital and loved volunteering, with her two favorite local events for children being "Trick or Treat in the Heat" and Camp Erin.

Janice is survived by her daughter, Jill Gartman; grandson, Jack Gartman; brother, Tom (Tracy) Kane; son-in-law, John Gartman; nieces, nephews and a host of longtime friends.

A celebration of Janice's life will be held on July 20, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The Den on the UAA Campus, 2921 Spirit Way in Anchorage. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Providence Alaska Hospital Foundation directed to support the Child Life Program.

Though she is no longer with us physically, Janice's free spirit and kind heart will forever warm our hearts.