Janice Tamura

Born on January 20, 1950, in Chicago, IL, to Seizo and Shizuko Tamura, Janice was a lifelong learner, an accomplished professional, and a compassionate individual who cared deeply about making a positive difference to those around her.

Janice's thirst for knowledge led her to earn an Associate Degree in Accounting from Oakton Community College, a Bachelor of Biology and Psychology from the University of Illinois, and a Masters degree in Computer Science from Northeastern Illinois University. These remarkable academic feats not only showcased her intellectual prowess but also laid the groundwork for a successful career in the field of information technology.

Janice's professional journey was marked by notable positions such as Database Administrator at EDS and T.M. Floyd and Company and senior system Project Leader at Kraft Foods. Her unwavering dedication, expertise, and strong work ethic made her an invaluable asset to every organization she served.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Janice had a zest for life and a love for travel, movies, musicals, and concerts. Her generous spirit was evident in her support of numerous philanthropic organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Doctors Without Borders, World Wildlife Fund, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and many more. Janice's commitment to making the world a better place touched countless lives.

In her later years, Janice faced the challenges of kidney disease with unwavering strength and resilience. Despite the daily struggles of managing her condition, which included regular dialysis treatments and a complex medication regimen, Janice never complained and remained determined to live life to the fullest.

Her positive attitude and refusal to give up in the face of adversity served as a testament to her indomitable spirit and inspired all those around her.

Janice's effect on friends and family is felt every day. She was always ready to help and never forgot a birthday. Her lifelong friendship with Gwen, her closest friend from college, was a testament to her loyalty and the value she placed on relationships. The two remained inseparable over the years, sharing countless memories and supporting each other through life's ups and downs.

Janice had the deepest affection for her niece, Elizabeth, her husband, and their children, cherishing every moment spent with them. Over the years, she was a constant source of support for her brothers, Ernie and Leo, just as they were for her.

From the beginning, Janice's life partner, Robert, could not have asked for a better companion. She supported him unconditionally, and their love for each other inspired all who knew them.

Janice is survived by her loving partner, Robert; her older brother, Ernie; her younger brother, Leo, and his wife, Dorothy; her stepmother, Atsuko; her niece, Elizabeth, and her husband, Keith; and their two sons, Kaleb and Sam. She was preceded in death by her parents, Seizo and Shizuko Tamura.

While no services will be held at this time, those who knew and loved Janice are invited to share their fond memories and condolences at www.drakeandsonfuneralhome.com.

Her warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.