Janice Kueppers, 73, of Valencia, California, passed away peacefully at home on May 15, 2025, with her beloved husband, William Kueppers, by her side.

Janice was born on October 25, 1951, in Staten Island, New York, to Louis and Rose Santanostasi. She was a devoted sister to her siblings Gail & Louis and a loving Aunt to their children.

She pursued her passion for language and music at Wagner College, earning a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in music. In 1974, she met the love of her life, William, and they were married just one year later. At the age of 23, Janice lovingly embraced the role of stepmother to William’s four children, a testament to her nurturing and generous spirit. Just weeks before her passing, she and William joyfully celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 3rd—a milestone that spoke to their deep and enduring bond.

In 1981, the family relocated from Hillsborough, New Jersey, to Valencia, California, where Janice continued to touch lives through her gifts of music and teaching. Music was the heart of Janice’s life. She served as the choir director at Christ Lutheran Church for 20 years and devoted over four decades to singing with the Verdugo Hills Chorus. Her dedication to vocal music extended beyond performance; she coached numerous quartets to regional titles and international acclaim, earning the admiration and respect of the musical community. Janice also shared her love of music with younger generations as a music teacher at Walter Reed Middle School for 21 years, where her enthusiasm and kindness inspired countless students.

In 2021, Janice was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given less than a year to live, but in true Janice fashion, she met the challenge with grace, courage, and an unbreakable spirit. She continued to teach, mentor, travel, and live fully, defying the odds for over three and a half years.

Janice will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family, students, and the music that filled her soul. Her voice and spirit will echo in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) in honor of Janice’s legacy.  http://support.pancan.org/got…

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