Jeanne Kinney

Jeanne Kinney returned home to God on Sunday, May 20, 2012.

She was born in Washington D.C on April 30, 1943. Jeanne is sister to Jim, Ken and Suzi and daughter of Dottie and the late Richard Maurer. She grew up in Birmingham, MI, where she met the love of her life, Bob, in high school. That was the start of a beautiful relationship, spanning 53 years-the kind most hope for, but few ever find. To watch Jeanne and Bob was inspiring and it was an incredible gift to witness their devotion and tender love for one another. At the center of this wonderful marriage was their relationship with God.

Jeanne was blessed with 3 daughters, Amy Kinney (Sam) of Middleton, WI, Molly Murphy (Matt) of Glen Ellyn, IL and Beth Eperjesy (Chris), of Racine, WI, whom she nurtured and loved unconditionally. She was not only their mom, she was their best friend. She was their confidant, their rock, their everything, and challenged them to be who God created them to be. Jeanne cherished being "nana" to her 9 grandchildren; Jack, Cam, Sophie, Ali, Anna, Aidan, Kate, Benjamin and Charlotte. She delighted in each of them and often said being a nana was "pure joy". She loved them completely and touched each of their lives with her gift to really "see them" and be present. Whether it was a card for a special occasion (or just because), calling to see how a game or event went or a weekend visit, Jeanne never missed an opportunity to express her love for these kids.

After raising her children, Jeanne completed a Master's Degree in Social Work, at UW-Madison, and then began a 20-year career as an adolescent counselor with New Start at Meriter Hospital. During her career, Jeanne provided guidance and support to countless troubled youth, and their families, with alcohol and drug addictions. Her patience and wisdom was a true blessing to these young adults, many of whom were looking for acceptance and strength to get their lives back on track. Very routinely, these patients would continue to keep in touch with Jeanne, long after they had completed their counseling.

Jeanne had an amazing presence about her and a deep desire to nurture and strengthen the relationships with her loved ones, friends and acquaintances. She was known for her bright smile and "all encompassing hugs." Her honesty and vulnerability made Jeanne someone who was easy to talk to, always willing to listen to others and provide honest insight. This incredible gift led Jeanne to become a mentor to many children over the years, including Mao Mey, whom she has mentored for 22 years. Jeanne also lovingly supported many children in Rwanda, Africa through World Vision. She and Bob were blessed to have traveled with fellow members of Christ Presbyterian Church to meet these children and witness the work of World Vision.

She was genuine in sharing her own struggles and shortcomings. Always quick to appreciate the gifts of others and gentle in her honesty, people knew they were unique and special in her presence. She brought a contagious energy to life and relationships. She was the ultimate giver, whether it was a note to say she was thinking of you or praying for you, a baby gift for someone she hardly knew, or one of her thousands of heartfelt cards. She left the seeds of God's love in everyone she encountered.

Some of Jeanne's greatest joys; a cup of hot coffee, swimming laps at Shorewood pool, walking the beach in Naples, FL (collecting only the most "perfect" shells), babies, and doing daily spiritual readings with Bob.

Jeanne Kinney - Child of God, Soulmate of One, Mother of Three, Nana to Nine and Friend to Many. Thank you for loving us so well. You have blessed us all. We love you so and will miss you greatly.

A celebration of Jeanne's life will take place on Saturday, June 2, 2012, at 9:30 a.m at Blackhawk Church. 9620 Brader Way Middleton, WI 53562.
A reception will follow immediately after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Jeanne's name to Younglife, Young Life Verona 724 Ethan Ter. Verona, WI 53593-2257 Phone: (608) 206-6988, or World Vision, P.O. Box 9716, Dept. W Federal Way, WA 98063-9716.