Janice “Jan” O'Leary

October 5th, 1943 - February 18th, 2025

Janice's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Janice here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

To Jan's entire family: Jan and I were roommates at Michigan State, and we had recently reconnected in person after years of just sending Christmas cards. She was still as much fun as ever, and I treasure the time that Jan, Marti, Mary Ann and I were able to share. It seemed as if the years just dropped away and we were back in the dorm! However, we had all gained a few things over the years: families, for instance. Jan was so proud of her family that I could almost recognize each member from her descriptions. I'm sure you are equally proud of the woman who influenced so many people in so many ways, and I send my most sincere condolences.

Sue Jepsen

February 27th, 2025 at 6:16pm

The first time I met Jan, I had just been hired by the law firm where her husband Pat was a partner. We were sitting in the bleachers behind Defer School watching a Little League game. Jan said to me: So, I hear you are going to work with those male chauvinist pigs at Plunkett Cooney!. From that time on, I just loved seeing Jan at firm events and occasionally around Grosse Pointe and yes, she was always the belle of the ball in her beautiful, brightly colored outfits. She was always so happy and just plain fun! Her obituary is so well written in describing the really cool person she was. I am sorry for her family and will keep all in my prayers. Mary Catherine Rentz

Mary Catherine Rentz

February 27th, 2025 at 8:26am

Dear Patrick, Peter and Michael, your mom and I reconnected a year ago. I was so happy she reached out to me. We met for lunch in Naples and spent 2 hours catching up. Then we met again in Traverse City last Oct. Again, a 2 hour lunch to catch up even more. I will cherish those lunches. Your mom is an amazing woman, who is kind, loving and supportive. Sending love, hugs and prayers to you and your families. Love, Christina

Christina Alvaro

February 24th, 2025 at 10:29am

The O’Learys and we were friends for many many years. We met Jan’s mom and dad. on a trip to Italy in 1971, and the Mansons introduced us to their “kids” soon after our return. Jan became a best friend. Her warmth, good will, optimism and just amazing personality were a constant source of pleasure. The boys were born one by one, and i saw her complete devotion to them and their well being. She was always cooking up a storm for her family, desserts were the highlight! We got to be part of that too sometimes, attending dinner parties that were unsurpassed! Jan always made not one but two different desserts for Bob who she knew would devour them. I also remember when our first grandchild arrived that Jan brought not one, not two, but three wonderful outfits for Cameron (one with an alligator look.). We had so many good times it is hard to single any one out. I do remember how excited we all were when Pat was made the Chair of the Detroit Bar Association, and we all wore formal dress so proudly for this occasion. We understood their move to Western Michigan to be closer to their family, but of course that meant we missed seeing them in more recent years except for occasional lunches. When Pat died last summer Jan and I had many conversation, and I felt very close to her again. I will very much miss this unique and wonderful woman.