Alyce C. Janssen

ALYCE C. JANSSEN – July 1, 1926 to September 7, 2021

Alyce died on Tuesday, September 7, 2021l.  At the age of 95, she was one of the oldest residents of Merchantville.  Alyce’s family moved to town when she was 17, and she died, peacefully, in the same home she lived in for 78 years. Alyce is preceded in death by her sister Mildred (known as Mimi) who also was a life long Merchantville resident. 

In her youth, Alyce was a member of the Merchantville Playcasters which performed in the building now occupied by the Blue Monkey.  Beginning in 1951, she traveled extensively, visiting over 30 countries, and was most proud of having dined with the US Ambassador in London.  She spent long periods of time in Bermuda, visiting there at least 6 times.  Alyce served many years in the Clerk’s office of Merchantville and is remembered for both attention to detail and efficiency in handling the many submissions that crossed her desk.  And for her impatience with those who failed to meet her high standards for compliance with the rules and regulations.  Following her retirement, Alyce lived a quiet life, spending holidays with her neighbors and adopted family, Steve and Cindy Volkert and their family members.  Always conscious of her appearance, Alyce was extremely grateful for rides to her hairdresser by her good friend Elaine Higgins.  Of all holidays, Christmas was her favorite, and her house would be decorated with beautifully carved Nutcrackers, lights, and table-top decorations.  And a tree, of course. 

During the last year of her life, following an unfortunate fall, Alyce was joined in her home by her full time companion and caregiver, Irene Attakorah.  Showing Alyce constant kindness and generosity, Irene was able to give Alyce companionship and friendship that transformed her from a fiercely independent and largely solitary person to one who laughed and joked, welcomed people into her home, learned to use an iPad, had a big birthday party, apologized for any inconvenience she felt that she caused, and was grateful for the kindnesses shown her.  As Alyce approached death, she observed that this was exactly how she had hoped her life would end: in her home, comfortable, and surrounded by those she loved.  Although not a religious person, when asked if she hoped to see her parents, sister, and dog Rex on the other side, she responded with a smiling “I certainly hope so!”

Alyce adored animals, and a feral cat in the neighborhood (Alyce named him Lionel) would look forward to his daily visits to her front steps for dinner and snacks.  As a lasting tribute, the feline surgical center at the Animal Welfare Association’s new facility in Voorhees will be named in honor of Alyce and Lionel.  As a final act of generosity, Alyce has bequeathed her entire estate to the University of Pennsylvania and Washington University, to provide scholarship assistance for deserving students. 

A graveside funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Lakeview Memorial Park, Route 130, Cinnaminson, NJ in Section 2, lot 159.  All are welcome