Jan Lee Kreader

I met Lee in 1969 soon after I started teaching at the College of Wooster. We had the experience of being adopted in common, and I think he was one of the first people (outside of therapists) I talked about it with. In 1971 I moved to the University of Pittsburgh. He was very good about keeping in touch with cards and notes. I am very sorry we lost touch, with so much going on in both of our lives, especially since eventually I wrote a book about adoption in literature and another about adoption memoirs that would have interested him.

I remember Lee in his days in Chicago. Always an important voice in child care who listened attentively to others and thoughtfully responded.

Lee and I were very close friends during our Wooster years, 1963-67. He was a thoughtful liberal from the day I met him. Lee, other Wooster friends and I talked all night on the day President Kennedy was assassinated. I'd love to hear from friends and family of Lee. Warm wishes, John (Gamble), Wooster, '67, Distinguished Prof. emeritus, Penn State, e-mail: [email protected]

I have so many fond memories of Lee, and am sorry to learn of his passing. Please know that I care and am holding all of you in my heart.

As a member of Kay's work community, I send condolences. May his memory be a blessing.

Rest in Peace, Jan. I have remembered you all these years.

I'd like to express my condolences to the family of Jan Lee Kreader. We were students together at Southeast High School in Lincoln, and we both participated in a school play whose title I've long forgotten. I remember Jan (as I knew him), as a ton of fun and laughs. I'm sure he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Jo (Stohlman) Baxter

I knew Lee through his son, Ben. Lee would always come to my dance performances here in NYC, with a smile on his face. He and Kay were so supportive of my journey as an artist. I will miss seeing them in the audience, but know they are here in spirit. Fly freely Lee and keep smiling and singing!

Our paths crossed many times over the years Lee was working in Chicago, as we worked in our separate states to build quality child care resources for families and children. He will be missed as a visionary and leader! - Diane Adams, Madison, Wisconsin

Lee was the kindest boss I've ever had, not to mention a mentor that changed my career trajectory and opened up so many new opportunities for me. My memories of him will continue to live on and bring joy to both me and my children; I'll continue to tell them the story about my boss who always called me by my last name, Willa, because he loved Willa Cather so much. When my daughter Willa was born he sent me a baby onesie for her with the quote, "Where there is great love there are always miracles." Lee was a model of kindness; his light will keep shining on for all who were blessed to know him.

It was such a pleasure spending time with you and Kay here in NYC. I loved your enthusiasm and humor. RIP

Lee, you were such a great companion - and as I think about it, and remember back, we did quite a lot together considering we lived so many miles apart. Time and tide did not get in our way, and you brought endless warmth, understanding and fun to our times together. I was so lucky to know you.

Such a wonderful recounting of Lee's life story. He was a good friend, serious minded when it came to children's issues and social concerns, but also ready with a hearty laugh and sharing good times together. I am so glad Lee got to meet his extended family. May God bless this beautiful soul.