Van Alstyne, Janice

ALBANY- Janice Van Alstyne 89, died peacefully on Sunday, November 20, 2022 at Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center in Troy. Jan was born in 1933 to Robert Van Alstyne and Alice Van Alstyne (nee Kells). Raised in Nassau, Jan was a graduate of Columbia High School (1950). She earned her bachelor’s degree in Art & Sociology from Central College in Pella, Iowa (1954). Jan was a longtime resident of the Delaware area neighborhood in Albany, and a devoted parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi, serving as a stalwart member of their choir for many decades.

Jan enjoyed both a successful career as an intermediate drafter for New York Telephone and a serious avocation as a wood sculptor. Both of these endeavors utilized Jan’s artistic talent and her ability to engage in exacting tasks with keen focus. Jan was a gifted artist and an engaged citizen who pursued her life’s work with purpose, dedication and deep humility. She was a genuine patriot who valued individual freedom, political democracy, and the contributions of those serving in the military. We will always remember Jan for her kindness toward others and her steadfastness to her principles.

Jan is survived by her brother and sister-in-law Robert & Lucy Van Alstyne of Rensselaer, her sister and brother-in-law Judith & Ronald Selkirk of Selkirk, and by many beloved nieces and nephews who will hold her memory dear.

All are invited to visit with her family at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 391 Delaware Ave., Albany Wednesday, November 30, from 9:00- 10:00 am prior to her funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Inurnment will follow the Mass in Our Lady Help of Christians, Glenmont. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may send memorial contributions to St. Francis of Assisi.