Stephanie Ann Janke
What do you remember about Stephanie? Share your stories and photos here, and invite others to come share their memories.
Stephanie Ann Janke, 60, of Naples passed away on Monday, February 22, with family by her side. She was born to Nancy Dawson (Hicks) and the late Charles Hicks on September 30, 1960 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Loving mother of Emily Janke (Sean Lynch) and Alex Janke; sister to Charles Hicks (Sandy), Allison (Hicks) Colobert, Eric Hicks (Lynn Boose), and the late Jennifer Hicks; and cherished niece to her aunts and uncles. She was known affectionately as "Aunt Steph" to her many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Stephanie was also a proud cat mom to her sweet and sassy Bootsie and a dear friend to many.
After graduating from McAuley High School in 1978, Stephanie majored in Early Childhood Education at the University of Cincinnati. Universally acknowledged for her ability to make all who knew her feel important and loved, Stephanie touched countless lives through her years of working with children.
As a swimming lesson instructor and pre-school teacher at the Gamble Nippert YMCA (Cincinnati, Ohio), Stephanie discovered her passion for teaching and coaching. She went on to work as the receptionist and swim coach at Colerain High School (Cincinnati, Ohio) where she received the "Friend of Children" Award. Stephanie's flair for cultivating relationships with students whom she mentored and coached will serve as her legacy.
Stephanie spent her final years living where she always dreamed she would: beachside. Her love of the ocean waves even surpassed the joy she had for the Christmas season.
Stephanie will be remembered most for her kind heart, infectious optimism, and warmth. She was our sunshine.
Due to COVID restrictions and for safety purposes, the family will be holding a private celebration of life ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Stephanie's name. Personal condolences may be offered to the family online at https://www.naplesfuneralhome.com/obituaries/