Janice Kimmel

With heavy hearts, we gather to celebrate the life of Janice L. Kimmel, 81, of Sacramento, CA, who left us on February 27, 2025. A beloved wife, nurturing mother, adoring grandmother, and cherished friend, Janice's kindness and warmth positively influenced the lives of everyone she encountered.

Janice was born in 1943 in Oakland, CA, and moved to Sacramento with her parents in 1950, where she would spend the rest of her formative years. Growing up as an only child, she found companionship and love in her lifelong partner, Jack, whom she met in Miss Koski's Spanish Class at McClatchy High School in 1958.

Following her graduation from McClatchy High School, Janice pursued higher education at Sacramento State College (now known as Sacramento State University), where she earned a degree in Education with a focus on early childhood development. After graduating in January 1964, and after six years of a loving relationship filled with laughter and adventure, Janice and Jack decided to leap into marriage.

Janice started her career in education, teaching kindergarten at Edward Kimball Elementary School, where her patience and creativity inspired countless young minds. Jack and Janice raised their two daughters, Sally and Nancy, in the Sierra Oaks neighborhood. After having children, Janice put her professional life on hold. She was a natural homemaker and organizer, known for her ability to bring people together. Janice was very active in her children’s school activities, volunteering at Sierra Oaks Elementary school and leading the Blue Birds/Campfire Girls’ troops. She frequently gathered friends to plan memorable fishing and camping trips, spirited tennis matches, joyful birthday celebrations, and community events. She also founded the Sierra Oaks Babysitting Coop, a tight-knit network of caregivers that became a cornerstone of the community for decades, where she forged many of her lifelong friendships.

As her children grew up, Janice became increasingly involved in the Sacramento community. Friends remember her as a valued member of various organizations due to her inclusive personality, intelligence, and natural leadership abilities. She actively participated in the American Association of University Women, the Junior League of Sacramento, the Children’s Home Guild, Old Sacramento Docent Guide and the Rotary Club’s Inner Wheel.

Janice’s insatiable curiosity for learning and exploration drove her to a fulfilling 40-year career as a travel consultant. She dedicated the early years of her journey to Wood’s World of Travel, where she immersed herself in the intricacies of the travel industry. After gaining valuable experience, she took the bold step of launching her own venture, Adventure Club Travel. Throughout her career, Janice expertly organized a remarkable array of group trips and cruises around the globe, curating unique experiences that ranged from exhilarating safaris in the breathtaking landscapes of southern Africa to unforgettable rounds of golf in the lush, historic scenery of Scotland.

Her commitment to fostering connections among friends inspired Janice to create numerous outings over the years, eventually leading to the establishment of her beloved “Adventure Club.” This close-knit group of adventurous women embarked on a variety of thrilling excursions, ranging from challenging hiking trips through scenic national parks and exhilarating rafting adventures on wild rivers to serene garden tours in charming towns, breathtaking balloon rides over picturesque landscapes, and heart-pounding para-sailing experiences along breathtaking coastlines.

These memorable adventures not only enriched their lives but also nurtured deep friendships, with her friends often expressing that the experiences they shared formed a special and enduring bond that would last a lifetime. Janice's passion for adventure and connection transformed her into a beloved figure among her peers, leaving an indelible mark on their lives and creating a tapestry of cherished memories woven through shared exploration.

Janice pursued a wide range of interests, including Broadway plays, opera, bridge, dominoes, and enhancing her golf game. In 2005, she served as the captain of the Del Paso Women’s Golf Group and participated in numerous activities at the club. A passionate reader, she also gathered friends to establish two book clubs.

Janice, Jack, and their family enjoyed vacationing together. In her very busy and adventurous life, Janice always prioritized her family, making a conscious effort to be present in the lives of her children and grandchildren, even though they lived outside of California. She shared a truly special and close relationship with her daughters and each of her grandchildren, attending school sports events, graduations and special events.

Janice is survived by loving family, husband Jack Kimmel, daughters Sally Henrich and Nancy Christopher, son-in-law Jamie Christopher and grandchildren Jack and Brad Henrich and Lucy, Haley and Lexie Christopher. As we say goodbye, let us celebrate the remarkable life Janice lived and the joy she brought to all. May we honor her memory by carrying forward her kindness and passion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Mercy Foundation https://give.mercyhealthfoundation.net/

or Salvation Army https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/give

 Both organizations were close to Janice’s heart.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, March 30, 2pm at Fremont Presbyterian Church. 5770 Carlson Dr, Sacramento CA 95819