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Janet Aguirre Obituary
Jan Aguirre was suddenly granted her angel wings on July 12th, 2013 at the young age of 60. No words can describe how much she loved her family and friends. She was the glue that held everyone together. Not only was she the best, wife, mom, grandma, aunt, sister and daughter, but she was also the best friend anyone could ever have, and would give a complete stranger the shirt off her back just to help someone in need. Daughter of Alyce and Roy Sherwood (predeceased) of Ithaca, NY on December 24, 1952. Jan is survived by her fiancé, Jim Manheim; her mother, Alyce; her three children, Jason (Lauren), Tara and Joey (Amy); two stepchildren, Brenda and Kevin (Maddie); six grandchildren, Jason, Josh, Taylor, Maya, Keegan and Leah; five siblings, Gary, Lynn (predeceased), Neil (Diane), Linda and Ed (Dawn); and numerous nieces and nephews. She was a fun loving, free spirit who loved riding her own Harley all over the US. Having her friends and family around her is what she lived for; there wasn't a moment that went by that Jan wasn't ready with some sort of practical joke that made everyone around her smile and laugh out loud. In her spare time, you could find her hiking for hours just to find the "the perfect waterfall or flower picture", dancing to her favorite bands, going on 18 hour shopping trips with her family or staying up all night with her daughter for scary movie marathons. Jan was known for her famous cookies, fudge, warm hugs, sense of humor and advocating for motorcycle rights all over NY State. She was an accomplished artist in both photography and jewelry making; with all of this she even managed to have a beautiful garden of flowers at home. For the last 26 years, she has worked for the Finger Lakes Library System; you could find her doing anything from teaching patrons how to use a computer to dressing up in various costumes for the Children's Reading Workshops. If you know Jan, you'd know that riding her Harley has always been her passion. She's been an active member in the Finglerlakes H.O.G Chapter and 28 years with A.B.A.T.E of Tompkins County, where she has helped organize rides, fashion shows and even a party or two. Jan's kindhearted and generous nature reminded everyone of the preciousness of life. She was loved by everyone, especially her family, friends and the hundreds she rode with during the summer months. Calling hours will be held on July 16th from 5-7 p.m. at Bangs Funeral Home in Ithaca, NY and a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on July 17th at the First Presbyterian Church in Ithaca, NY with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Toys for Tots and/or Tompkins County Public Library. In her short life, she somehow mastered the art of living every single second of life to the fullest.
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Memories and Condolences
for Janet Aguirre
Rich Tallcot
July 9, 2024
The obituary itself tells much and is well written. Jan made everyone and everything come alive that were in her presence. I think of Jan and Jim often and she will live in my heart forever. 7/9/2024
Rich Tallcot
July 9, 2020
Life isnt fair but Jan made it worth living to its fullest. I think of her often and she lives in my mind and heart. July 9, 2020 now in Greeneville, Tennessee Rich Patches Tallcot
Marian McCollum
July 11, 2019
Janet was always the brightest light in the room. I miss Janet and think of her often.
Gail Zussman
October 14, 2016
Thinking of Jan today as the leaves change colors and fall's coolness descendso on us
Diane Ferman
July 11, 2015
It's just a little more than a year later
and a darling little girl named Elyse Janet Muckey, named after you born to Lauren and Jason. She is pretty, loves to
laugh and enjoys life as much as you did.
I can't help but think of you each time I hear her name or see her. She has taken
your space here on earth to love and bring
joy and happiness to others as you did.
She is your newest grandaughter and is just delightful. Always in our hearts.....
Jason Muckey
July 10, 2015
I never read these until now. I am truly touched and reminded of how much of a loving, caring and thoughtful person you were. You touched so many lives in your brief time here with all of us. There isn't a day that goes by that some thought of you passes through me. If I could ever live my life just half as good as you, I would be blessed. I see you in each of my children. Jason Jrs caring for others, Josh's determination, Leah's smile and Elyse's laughter. And of course the humor in all four of them. I am so glad that you are my mom and love that part of you lives on in them. You hold a special place in my heart and I will always love and miss you! Till we meet again Mom. I love you!
Tara
July 6, 2014
Love you mom
Suzi Q Long
November 17, 2013
I have just heard the news of Jan's death. She was such an inspiration to me, and I send my peace and love to Jim and all her family.
September 4, 2013
Alyce, So sorry to read about your dear Janet's passing.
Sally (Grover) Clayton
Debi & Rick Sumner
August 4, 2013
Dear Jim and Family,
We've been wanting to write something to let you know how much we love Jan and hurt for you but it seems hard to find the right words. This seems so unreal and hard to grasp, one of the hardest things we've ever had to do. We always looked forward to either seeing you guys or riding with the two of you biu without her nothing will be quite the same. We are so grateful to have had her in our lives and she made us a better person. You are in our thoughts and prayers, Debi and Rick
Diane Ferman
July 29, 2013
Deeply touching about hearing that Jan, my daughter's mother-in-law, has passed on. My sincere sympathy to the entire family. My prayers will continue to be with all of you. Life is sometimes too short, as Jan's was....live each day as if it were your last...and love those that are here with you today.
Nora Ackerman
July 25, 2013
My condolences to the family and friends of Jan. Although I did not know Jan well, I met her at various family gatherings and for those few brief periods of time, she always made me feel comfortable and welcome. She had such an inner glow of peace and always extended her friendship. And now looking at all these comments about how she lived her life, I feel sad that I did not get to know her better. These tributes to her have touched me and made me realize that our moments with others in this journey through life are brief and should be cherished.
ODell
July 22, 2013
So sorry for your loss. We didn't get to see her often, but enjoyed the times we did. Jan was a great person and will live for ever in everyone's memories. Jim & Nadine ODell
Joe Zawislak
July 20, 2013
I remember Jan and the times we rode together. I am sorry for her passing. May God bless her forever and hold her in His loving arms.
To you Jim and to Jan's family - please accept my sincere condolences and good wishes during this sad time.
July 19, 2013
Janet we all will miss ya, the rides will not be the same with you in heaven. watch over all and keep Jim and all safe, good friend we will miss ya. Chuck and Wendy Rose
chester and luann morgan
July 19, 2013
we will remember that smile for ever...rip jan
At Crater Lake after a beautiful bike ride.
July 18, 2013
My heart and prayers go out to Jan's family. I first met Jan a number of years ago at a Polaris User's Group conference. We quickly connected over our common interests of riding, gardening, photography and libraries. I will greatly miss Jan, her ever smiling face, her willingness to help, her sharing of knowledge and her love of life, family & friends. Ride on Jan.
Marian McCollum
Steve & Rachel Doolittle
July 18, 2013
Jason, Lauren and family, Our deepest sympathy to you all for the great loss you have suffered. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Rebecca (Bec) Coulter
July 17, 2013
Prayers and deepest sympathies Jim, family & friends. She was one of a kind! Always wearing that warm smile! Truly a wonderful Lady.
Cheli Secord
July 17, 2013
Alice and Family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Jan was one of those people who stood out in the crowd. She was the first one to extend her hand in friendship, first to dig and help solve a problem. A really awesome friend. I miss her in my life, unfortunately I will miss her the rest of my life. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God Speed my friend, God Speed.
July 17, 2013
My condolences go out to Jan's family and her family of friends. I knew Jan when I worked at the library. She always was available to answer questions regarding the catalog system.
We had a art show put on by the workers . I am so glad I bought a beautiful framed photograph of water lilies that she created.
She had an eye for beauty and a joy for living.
Patricia Lia
West Danby, New York
Christine Burroughs
July 17, 2013
To Jan's Family,
I would like to express my condolences to Jan's family. Although I have not worked with Jan since 2005, she had a spirit you never forget. My prayers are extended to you.
Karen Bernardo
July 16, 2013
A truly wonderful lady!
July 16, 2013
Tara Taylor and family,
Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with your family at this sad time. Sending hugs and much love to all of you.
Don, Julie, Nick, Alec and Ava Andersen
Tom & Julie Duffee
July 16, 2013
Heaven is blessed with another angel..Jan you are gone to soon. Your smile, your compassion and zest for life were unparalleled. You were loved by all and we are so fortunate to have been in your life.
7-12-13
Linda Warner
July 16, 2013
I really can't say anything more then what is already being said. Jan holds a special place in everyone's heart that she touched. My best wishes to Jan's immediate and extended family.
Jean and Carol Sorgi
July 16, 2013
She was one women who will be missed by may and loved by all who new her. RIP Jan!
July 16, 2013
To Jan's family and close friends -
I join many others in sadness to know of Jan's untimely death. She was a great asset to FLLS and was always willing and helpful to those of us on the staff not quite as quick or able with our computers and using other newer technology devices. She was fun to be around and helped to keep us all working with a light touch. Please know that although I retired several years ago, I will always keep Jan's memory in my heart and head. Joan F Cooke, former Youth Services Librarian
Peggy Sue
July 16, 2013
Tara, I am so sorry to hear of this today. Your mom was an amazing lady! Always smiling and happy and full of life. I feel for you and your family, and you are in my thoughts. Please take care. Love you lots.
Memorial Day 2012 Waterloo Car Show
Joe & Holly Sincebaugh
July 16, 2013
Our lives are so much richer from having know this wonderful, caring woman. Jan, you have documented in your photographs some of the most memorable moments in our lives. We will truly miss your company. I will miss seeing you in my left mirror on every ride.
July 16, 2013
I worked with Jan a long time ago at the radio stations on Aurora St. She was a very special lady. Holding her friends and family up in prayer.
Cindy
Diane Holbert
July 16, 2013
Janet died as my big, Harley-Riding brother did - doing what she loved. I feel the pain of her siblings and will put them in prayer. In shared grief, Diane E. Holbert - metadata & reference librarian Baldwinsville Public Library
In your eyes is the Lord...
Camille Little
July 16, 2013
Grace Miller Miller
July 16, 2013
The Spencer Library board of trustees is so grateful for the way Jan got our library automated and on-line in a painless and efficient manner. She worked with a group of local, "oldsters" weekly to accomplish the task of barcoding our thousands of books. I know that FLLS will miss Jan's sunny personality and many talents and teaching ability. As a trustee of Spencer Library from 2003 and a FLLS Trustee for 6 years I have always enjoyed seeing Jan. We will miss her photography skill at our October Annual Meeting. Our condolences are sent to her family & friends. Grace Miller
Tony & Maggie Pesco
July 16, 2013
Tara,You and your family are in our prayers. Sorry to hear of your loss.
It's a beautiful sunset...
camille little
July 16, 2013
Jan, whenever I ride, wherever the road takes me, I will be taking thoughts of you with me. Without a doubt, all that you are, all that you brought to others, will be sadly missed! Ride on Jan! xoxo dear friend ~ Camille
(look in on Jim from time to time!)
Nickie Ostrander
July 16, 2013
Jan will be missed in so many ways. I will always remember her smile. Ride on Jan.
Alex Wood
July 16, 2013
Jan your smiling face and being will be missed by so many. We will miss you and have fond thoughts and prayers.
Diane Corder
July 16, 2013
I only had the pleasure of meeting Jan once,what a wonderful sense of humor and such a friendly personality. My heart goes out to all of her family and friends,may the memories you all have bring you comfort.
July 16, 2013
Tara...our hearts go out to you, Tara, along with prayers for you and your family in this time of great turmoil. Your family and friends are there for you...just call on them when you need and as often as you need... LoveHugs&kisses...Bonnie & David Kimber
July 16, 2013
Tara, I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. You and your Family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Tammy Cook
Fred Jackson
July 16, 2013
Jan and Jim always made the time spend with them very enjoyable.
I am sad to hear of her passing, Jan will truly be missed.
July 16, 2013
The Earth is a dimmer place without Jan's vibrant light.
Ride on forever Jan.
Jill and Dick Linn
Mary and Les Hayward
July 16, 2013
Rest in peace, friend, fly with the angels now!! You will be missed.
July 16, 2013
Tara,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Lockwood
Helena Hibbard and Dan Blauvelt
July 16, 2013
WE LOVE AND MISS YOU DEEPLY JAN..................... YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS RIP
Helena Hibbard
July 16, 2013
Jan it was and honer to have met you but our fun times together were too short :'( I will miss you! You and Jim made me feel comfortable the first day i met you. You will always be in my heart. RIP my dear friend XO LOVE YOUR FRIENDS DAN BLAUVELT and HELENA HIBBARD
Keith & Roxanne Hills and Family
July 16, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bruce Roemmelt
July 15, 2013
Rest in peace my friend . Could not ask for a better person. Will be missed .
Paula Senno
July 15, 2013
Tara, Taylor & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Please let us know if you need anything big or small. Love, Paula & Co.
Cly Boehs
July 15, 2013
I never saw Jan without a smile. She will be so greatly missed.
Rich "Patches" Tallcot
July 15, 2013
My heart is saddened at the loss of a good friend who made life worth living. The world will miss her and my deepest sincere condolences to Jim and her family.
Kay Callahan
July 15, 2013
Rest in Peace knowing that you were loved by all who knew you and that you made a difference in so many lives.
Tim and De Johnson the other one of Tim was with Mark another friend.
July 15, 2013
Mary Nygaard
July 15, 2013
Sorry to hear about Jan. She was a kind hearted colleague when I worked at TCPL and Finger Lakes.
Edie Spaulding
July 15, 2013
Jan died doing something that she really enjoyed, riding her trike! She was a wonderful person and great friend! Her smile would light up a room! I know that she will be missed by a lot of people!
Dawn Muckey-Rantanen
July 15, 2013
R.I.P. My Friend. My prayers and thoughts are with all of Janet's family and friends. She was a wonderful caring person, always smiling and full of fun and joy. When she came into our family we were blessed. Ride with the angels Jan. Love you.
Adeline Cannone
July 15, 2013
Prayers and condolences to Everyone who's heart was touched by this amazing woman. May you find peace and comfort as Jan makes her way home. Blessed Be.
July 15, 2013
Jan and Jim filled our neighbor hood with brightness. Jan was a flower lady always fussing and keeping watch on them. A beautiful neighbor who would do anything for you. I am alone so Jim and I can talk.
God will be watching over him and Jan will be witching also. Love you Jan.
Neighbor Bill
John Kinne
July 15, 2013
Such a sad loss to everyone that knew Jan. She was such a great person and and a good friend to me. My heart and thoughts are with all of you . RIP my friend.
Marilyn Borgendale
July 15, 2013
Jan always came to library conferences with her ideas, her smile and her camera. I learned from her and I will miss her.
Alvin and Lucina Martak
July 15, 2013
our prayers are with you Jim and familey Jan will be missed by all that new her
Frank & Meredith Bocek
July 15, 2013
We will all miss Jan...her smile says it all...our thoughts and prayers will be with Jan and her family...
Melinda VanEtten
July 15, 2013
Doug and I will miss Jan very much. We definitely had Harley's in common. We all loved going on rides for benefits and just for fun. Rest in peace, Jan. God bless your family.
Bob & Karen Radenberg
July 15, 2013
Our prayers are with all of Jan's family and friends. She is riding around heaven, now. Tending to the flowers and exploring the next cloud. Ride on Jan! You will be forever in our hearts.
John & Lorraine Steele
July 15, 2013
We are so sorry for your loss, Jan had such a kind heart and she touched many lives. She will be missed.
Jennifer Ginzery (Manheim)
July 15, 2013
Fly high angel! You will be missed beyond words.
Denise and Mike Shaw
July 15, 2013
Jan's effervescent personality and love of life was bigger than this world. Her impish grin and dimpled smile touched everyone she met, making you an instant friend. She put her heart and soul into everything she did. She was devoted to her family and friends and we are blessed to have known her. Her light and goodness will shine on in the many happy memories she left in our hearts.
Judith Andrew
July 15, 2013
I am also a member of the Ithaca library community and know that we will all miss Jan very much. There were many happy times shared with her at our state library conferences. Her free spirit and intelligence, her sense of humor and caring nature will always be a part of those of who were honored to know her. I send my heartfelt sympathies to her family and friends.
Donna Hanna
July 15, 2013
I'm terribly sorry to hear of Jan's passing. I knew her through NYSLAA and find her obituary to be right on the money. I will truly miss her.
Sherry Ussery
July 15, 2013
Jim and family I am so sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and in my prayers.
Tammy Spencer
July 15, 2013
To all the family I'm so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful loving caring women that has been taking at such a young age janet was one of a kind she taught me well growing up the best thing she did for me was come into my life and taught me how to love and to never let life get you down I love you jsn jan
Geri Remming
July 15, 2013
My condolences to your family, I only knew Janet from Polaris Users Group meetings but I remember her kindness and sweetness.
Tonya Wright
July 15, 2013
Tara, so sorry to hear of your loss. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
Kay Zaharis
July 15, 2013
three will be a void in all the hearts who knew her.
Ginna Blaisdell McCormick
July 15, 2013
Jan is one of the angels now watching over us. She will be greatly missed! Until we meet again Jan.
July 15, 2013
Jim and Family...
So sorry for your loss of a wonderful woman. Sending healing energy and love.
Take care,
Tim and Carol Megivern
Jane & Jeff Jack
July 15, 2013
Tara & Taylor,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless all of you.
July 15, 2013
I didn't know Jan personally but I do and always will remember her kindness and her smile when we saw her at our commonly favorite Harley Davidson dealership Ithaca Harley Davidson. Rest In Peace Jan !
Carrie and Izzy Carmenatty
July 15, 2013
Jim and Family,
Please know how sorry we are for your loss. Jan was a treasured colleague, a beautiful person and a model of how to enjoy life!
I imagine Jan's heaven welcoming her with a chorus of Vance and Hines pipes and know that we will ride together again one day!
Kenyon Wells
July 15, 2013
I was a library conference friend of Jan's for many years and am so saddened to learn of her passing. A unique,caring and lively spirit such as Jan's graces all who have had the good fortune of having crossed paths with her. May the celebration of her life well lived temper the sadness of loss for her family.
Terri Hoppenrath
July 15, 2013
Jim and family,
Jan had a kind, selfless spirit; always thinking of others. We can all learn and carry that on in our lives. My heart sends peace and comfort during these darkest hours. Ride freely my friend as we shall continue down life's highway with you following us as the wind or a beautiful flower along the road.
Priscilla
July 15, 2013
Jan will be greatly missed. Her smile and bright personality lifted many meetings at Finger Lakes Library System. My thoughts are with you.
Carlene Hall
July 15, 2013
My husband David & I knew Jan years ago when she was with one of my husband's nephews (Roy). I remember what a wonderful help she was at that time in helping our family put together a memorable family reunion. She certainly was a good person and I know she will be missed by her family & friends.
July 15, 2013
Tara and family,
So sorry for your loss.
Bucky and Cindy Doolittle
Joe, Agnes, and family Tagliavento
July 15, 2013
Dear Jim and Family, Our sincere condolences for your loss. Jan was a very special lady with a wonderful big heart. She will be greatly missed by many. We may not understand it, but God has special plans for angels like Jan. Our thoughts, hugs, and prayers are with you all.
margaret marks
July 15, 2013
jan, I will miss your friendship and support- you always believed in me when I didn't believe in myself, and you were always right!!! love you forever
Linda Becker
July 15, 2013
My prayers go out to everyone in the family. She was a wonderful person and I will miss her.
Val Kimber
July 15, 2013
Tara, Jason, Joey, Alice and Jim and family, My heart goes out to you during this terrible time. Jan was a great person and she will be missed by many. I will always cherish the time I have been given to get to know her. I have always admired her love for life, that she was always happy and laughing and the closeness you guys had as a family. She was an inspiring woman in so many ways. My thoughts are with you all, big hugs.
July 15, 2013
Jason and family, so sorry for your loss. She will be greatly missed by many. Prayers and thoughts are with you. Diana Reeves Ness
Trish Shigley
July 15, 2013
Tara and Taylor, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss. May your memories of times with your mom and grandma fill you with joy and laughter in the time ahead.
Love you & Hugs
Trish
Rob Osborn
July 15, 2013
Tara and Taylor,
We are deeply saddened by the loss of your wonderful Mom and Grandmother. She was a truly remarkable lady. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
With Love,
Rob and Mary Beth
July 15, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with Jan's family and her many friends throughout the Finger Lakes Library system. She brought a special joy to everyone she touched. We were blessed to have had her as our friend. She will truly be missed.
Peggy Huntington
July 15, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Jan's passing. My thoughts and Prayers to her Family.
Laura Hollenbeck
July 15, 2013
Jim and family, Jan will be deeply missed by all the lives she touched, she was a wonderful, fun and caring person. Our thoughts are with you all!
Jeff & Laura Hollenbeck
Jan Galt
July 15, 2013
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together.
July 15, 2013
Jan, I will miss you every day. You were always a model of how to treat other people and show that life should be fun. I hope your family can find a way to ease their pain in your passing. RIP
Hazel Hall
July 15, 2013
Tara and Taylor - You are in my thoughts and heart. Sorry for your loss.
Russ Simcoe
July 15, 2013
I know Jan will be missed as I had the pleasure of knowing her, my thoughts go out to all of her family
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