Janice Elaine Swank

Janice Elaine Swank (Kempke) 85 of Crest Hill, passed away on January 7, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Her family has been left with a void that will never be filled.

 Janice was born in Joliet on May 14, 1939 to Leonard and Lucielle Kempke (Boyd). She remained in the Joliet area her entire life.

Janice retired from the State of Illinois, at which time she became the full time care taker for her husband, Raymond Swank Sr as he fought a long battle with cancer. 

 Janice was a kind, caring and loving woman who would have done anything she could to help out anyone she knew. She truly had a heart of gold.

 Janice found great joy in spending time with her family. She especially cherished any time she was able to have all her grown children together with her. She also treasured her visits with her grand children and great grand children. She truly loved her family with her whole heart.

 Jan’s other favorite place was her home away from home, the Croatian Club in Joliet. She enjoyed going there to play cards, listen to the bands, test her luck and to just spend time with her friends. Jan had met so many wonderful people who not only became special friends, some also became like family to her. Each one of them held a special place in her heart.

 Janice was survived by her children Chris (Mark) Smith, Kathy (Thomas) Perry, Phil (Diane) Cooper, Kim Navarro, Edith (George) Walsh. Her grandchildren Crystal, Nathaniel (Marianne), Johanna (Josh), Brandon (Courtney), Joshua (Kiana), Jake (Serena), Megan (Casey), Ray (Katie), Zakk, Zoe, and Abbie. Her great grandchildren Chance, Jayna, Jaxson, Zion, Declan, Vada, and Savannah.

 Janice was proceeded in death by her parents, Leonard and Lucielle Kempke, her husband, Raymond Swank Sr., her son, Raymond Swank Jr., and her great granddaughter, Ellianna Navarro.

 Per Jan's request, no services will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Croatian Club, 1503 Clement St, Joliet,IL. on Saturday, February 22, 2025  from  12: 00 pm - 3:00 pm. 

 The family would also like to send out a special thank you to all of our extended family and friends who have reached out during this difficult time. We are especially thankful for all of the love, thoughts and prayers that were sent our way. Your kindness was greatly appreciated by Jan and her family.