Katherine C. Jaus

Katherine C. Jaus (Porter), Kaye, Mom, Nanay, born January 6th, 1953, passed away in her home following the onset of an aggressive form of cancer on June 13th, 2024. She was surrounded by family as she journeyed peacefully into her next adventure. Her passing was accompanied by the sound of a barred owl and a veery just outside the window and a yard full
of fireflies. Kaye leaves behind a loving husband of 51 years, two children, and two grandchildren.
Kaye overcame the difficulty of growing up in a home full of hardship, and her adult life unfolded into a fantastic love story when she found her husband Craig. In the blink of an eye they were married and began the epic adventure of being a Navy family. From the remote island of Adak, Alaska located along the Aleutian Island chain to the rocky coastline of Maine, Kaye and Craig provided a home full of love that harbored rescued pets and offered refuge for friends who were stationed far from family. Kaye met the challenges of being a Navy wife by focusing on her family and her love of crafting, hiking, and knitting. Even in the difficult times when Craig was stationed in Antarctica, Kaye would put together care packages and help her two children, middle and high school aged at the time, write notes for their dad who was far away, a feat any parent would recognize as impressive.
Art and baking became a way to express love and creativity over the years for Kaye. She created beautiful stained glass pieces, knitted blankets and sweaters, and made cookies and other desserts for her family to enjoy. Her daughter and granddaughter now hold dearly the many creations made by Nanay. Her grandchildren knew a visit to Nanay's meant something fun such as painted pots for plants or a craft project to take home and share.
Kaye's love of nature extended beyond caring for stray pets and spending time in the woods hiking and walking. She was an avid gardener and protector of wildlife, often overheard telling the mosquitos to "go away please" instead of swatting them like everyone else. Kaye was involved with the UNH Cooperative extension as a "citizen scientist", volunteering to help count eels and take measurements to track beach erosion. She was always active and eager to make a positive impact in the world by fighting for the underdog. Kaye taught her family to love and be kind and stand up for what you believe in.
Kaye is survived by her husband of 51 years, Craig Jaus, son Nate and his wife Victoria, daughter Quenby and husband Jason, grandchildren Everett and Addy, her brothers Tim, Rich, Ted and Don, her sister Etoka, her dearest friend Martha, and her rescue dog Emma, and her grandpuppies Corey and Baxter.
Our family would like to extend our gratitude to the staff at Concord hospital and Cornerstone Hospice for all their support and kindness through this difficult time.
A private service for family will be held to celebrate Kaye's life. In lieu of flowers, please consider an act of kindness.