With hearts full of love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Janice F. Holmes, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Janice passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at the age of 82, while holding the hands of her two children.

Janice was born on March 2, 1944, in Cooperstown, New York, to Elizabeth Van Patten and Ellis Ball. Given her connection to Cooperstown, it was no surprise that she became a lifelong baseball fan, first cheering for the Brooklyn Dodgers. She was raised in Canajoharie, New York, where she attended Canajoharie High School. She was crowned queen of her junior prom and, during her senior year, led the cheerleading squad with boundless energy and enthusiasm. After graduating in 1962, she continued her education and earned her certification as a medical secretary.

Janice dedicated many years of her career to working for Dr. Al Lofredo and Dr. Joe Lofredo in Schenectady, New York. She later joined New Beginnings in Albany, where she remained until her retirement. In 2014, she relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where she became a faithful member of Messiah Lutheran Church.

Janice was always ready for an adventure, embracing life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and an open heart. Her greatest gift was her sense of humor. She had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and lift the spirits of those around her. Whether relaxing on the beaches of Cape Cod, enjoying a favorite movie or television show, sharing laughter with family and friends, spending treasured time with her beloved grandchildren, or trying her luck at the slot machines, she found joy in life's simple pleasures. Her adventurous spirit, kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering ability to bring smiles to others will be remembered and cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Survived by her children, Laura Henk (Brian) and Jeffrey Holmes; her brother, Richard Ball (Patti); her sister, Patricia Van Heusen (Bob); her grandchildren, Kelsey McDonald, Jake Henk, Grace Henk, and Michael Holmes; and several nieces and nephews who will forever treasure the countless memories they shared with her.

Preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Duane Ball and Bert String; and her nephew, Kurt Ball.

We are forever grateful for the love she gave so generously, the laughter she inspired so effortlessly, and the memories she created so beautifully.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude and deepest appreciation to the many doctors, nurses, caregivers, and medical professionals who cared for Janice with such compassion, kindness, and dignity over the past several months. Your dedication, comfort, and support meant more to our family than words can express, and we will always be thankful for the exceptional care you provided.

Though she will be deeply missed, her love, laughter, and the many memories she created will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Messiah Lutheran Church, 40 Houbolt Road, Joliet, Illinois. At 10 a.m. Visitation will be held at from 9:00 a.m. until time of service. Burial will take place on Saturday, August 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Fort Plain Cemetery in Fort Plain, New York. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Farkas Funeral Home.