Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
FUNERAL HOME
575 South Snelling Avenue
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Henry Janney Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Henry Janney
Sponsored by Jackie Forner, a Friend.
DJ
July 1, 2023
His Sister Allison Dedicated Her Oscar To Him After She Won In 2018.
Shaunda Lynn ZeVan
February 11, 2023
Just the mention of your name causes an ache in my chest that will never go away. I miss you forever. Still breaks my heart. You are so special, Hal. One of a kind.
Nicholas Siegel
February 11, 2023
Hearing his bass lines once more as a fellow musician of so long ago, Hal now travels the stars on rays of light and occasionally dwells in the in-between pauses of our conversations...and lyrical passages, where I hear his musicality still. Cosmic passport in hand, he will again share
what wondrous things he has seen as we, one day reunited, would together sit the edge of the Milky Way - gazing out over Creation -- and flip through his visa stamps to hear his tales of Heavenly voyages and gigs
Shaunda ZeVan
February 11, 2020
Remembering you with so much fondness and gratitude form your wonderful friendship on the anniversary of your passing. Special, you.
Cheryl Register
January 24, 2020
He sounds like an amazing human being and that's a rare find! Many condolences to the family!
Brenda Berry
January 6, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Lizanne
May 9, 2019
Wow! Sounds like a fantastic man!!! Xoxoxo
Shaunda ZeVan
September 29, 2018
Still can't quit thinking of you, Hal. Just, damn. I wish I could have a do-over.You are the absolute most decent human being. I'm hoping, somehow, you can still see this and know clearly that you were loved.
Theresa Munn
December 14, 2017
So sorry for the loss of your beloved son and brother. His beautiful soul will brighten the heavens forever. May you all find peace. God bless.
Amy Taylor
June 21, 2017
My father also died on February 14, 2011. The grief is still there. He was a great guy like Mr. Janney. Sorry for your loss as well.
Shaunda ZeVan
April 28, 2017
I'm thinking of you today, Hal. I'm so sorry. How I wish I could go back in time and spend time with you again. You are so precious.
Bjorn V
December 21, 2014
Hal, I learned of your passing a long time after you passed, but I was and am very sad to have found this out. I met you and got to know you in a very random way, but you left a long lasting impression on me. I talk to my kids about you often, and someday I hope they will know why. People such as yourself are rare. Kind and generous to others because that's who you were. No other reasons. You're an example to me of how to be genuine and honest, yet unafraid to be vulnerable and human.
I'll miss you, Hal, and it was a pleasure to know you.
AC
September 25, 2013
I happened to catch the premiere of your sister's new show Hal and I laughed until I cried, because I knew you would have really loved everything about it; especially Allison's character, who is struggling in her life, but is so clearly searching for peace and love...in the funniest, most endearing way.
It's been well over 2 years now. It just doesn't seem possible. I speak of you often, I think of you even more and sometimes I just have to let go and cry. I will never stop missing you, never stop loving you. Ever. And I thank God every day that I had you in my life at all. I wish you had known just how deeply meaningful your presence was in my life. I will forever regret not telling you...forever.
August 5, 2013
I miss you, Hal. I know you've gone where you can't read this but I just miss you. I wish you could read all of these. I wish you could've read them a long time ago.
Melanie Smith
February 18, 2012
Even after a year I can barely believe that Hal is no longer here with us. It makes me cry. What I wouldn't give to hear his voice again and share a hug. I loved him so very much. I treasure the years we had together and carry him in my heart today and always.
What a tremendous loss for all of us who loved you. I hope I get to you see you again Hal...you are missed so much by so many. I hope you have found peace, you deserve it.
Ann Wallace
December 22, 2011
I knew Hal in St. Paul where we hung out at the Starbucks at Victoria Crossing long ago. He helped me set up my computer. What a sweetheart, what a sad story
December 5, 2011
I miss you today....
Shaunda Lynn ZeVan
August 19, 2011
I went to the movies the other night and saw the Help. I mentioned to my daughter how wonderful Allison was in it and she asked if I had spoken to Hal in the last few years. I said I hadn't, but thought of him often. She then looked him up and told me the startling news.
I was crazy about Hal. My boss, who owned a coffee shop he frequented in Saint Paul, fixed us up and we became fast friends. I could not get enough of his wit, intelligence, kindness and higher way of thinking. His piano playing was beautiful. My daughter, who was quite young at the time, adored him. She still remembers everything about him as a twenty-something. Hal was into the idea of dating at the time, and I, in recovery from a broken heart, was not, so we kind of drifted apart. I regretted that many times over. He was a standout and standup guy. No girl could have a better friend or boyfriend, I am sure. Rest well, Hal. So, so sorry for Hals family. I feel a hole in my heart and will never forget him.
Shaunda ZeVan
Boynton Beach, Florida, previously Minneapolis
Pamela Lillard
July 11, 2011
Hal was such a dear, gentle soul. Heaven is lucky to have him. My deepest affection to the wonderful Janneys. With love
Genevieve Gandal
June 5, 2011
Hal was our touchstone, from our young single days, through weddings, children, divorces... everything. It is a tragedy to know we are no longer a touchstone for him. He was so full of love and acceptance of everyone around him. His soul undersood others' suffering and validated it. His love made you feel real. a bit like the velveteen rabbit. May his memory be a blessing. may he live beautifully in my heart and mind. I miss him
Max Nitze
April 26, 2011
Hal was one of the most genuinely kind, sweet and beautiful men I've ever met and I'm honored to say he was my friend. I was devastated to hear this horrible news. Hal had a profound impact on me when I was going through a rough time. We would play cards late into the night and laugh and laugh. He had an incredible wit and was very funny, but without ever being mean or condescending. I loved Hal and this is a terrible loss for everyone whose lives he has touched with his humor and gentle nature. Be well brother!
Armand Bolling
April 22, 2011
I am so sad to hear Hal is gone. My prayers are with the Janney family this Easter. May God Bless you Hal.
Katie Maloney
April 2, 2011
I have wonderful memories of smiling, warm, funny Hal from days at Miami Valley School and also at Camp Blue Heron. My sympathies to the Janney family for your loss. He will be remembered.
March 24, 2011
To the Janney family: please accept my condolences and sympathy. Amy Gordon, Chicago, IL
Beth Saidel
March 14, 2011
I loved Hal. I just now heard about his death and can't even begin to express my sadness. It's been a few years since I've seen him...but I will never forget him...his soft smile, his warmth, his charm. To the Janney family, I send my love and deepest sympathies.
Marc Mayerson
March 13, 2011
I knew Hal for a couple years in High School MVS. I was exceptionally fond of him, and I always thought he was a very special fellow.
He did a fantastic art project on the book Fahrenheit 451 in 10th Grade. He had a book and depicted via a "thought baloon" ideas (via several colored pieces of contruction paper); paired with this was a charred piece of wood in the same dimensions of a book and the "thought" baloon was a blank.
It is remarkable how people leave fingerprints on the lives of others. Thank you, Hal.
Andy Rodgers
March 6, 2011
My wife Molly and I were friends with Hal during his years in San Francisco. Hal was the first person I told that I planned to marry Molly. He was always the easiest person to share anything with! We wish all the best to the Janney family. In loving memory, Andy and Molly Rodgers
Ellynne Skove
March 6, 2011
Oh my....what a surpise this news is. Losing a family member is so hard. I remember Hal's upbeat impishness from back in high school days. My sympathies for all who loved him.
February 28, 2011
To Macy, Jay, Allison and Jerve,
I just met Hal one time when the family was reuniting and i remember how nice and peasant he was; we swapped MSPL/STP stories and I am so very sorry. Karin Martin Dayton OH
Bill Kirk
February 26, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Janney family. Hal and I were roommates our sophomore year at Hotchkiss and we kept in touch off and on through our college years. He was always a loyal friend, full of fun and good-hearted mischief, quick to laugh, overflowing with great ideas and wise beyond his years. I'll make a donation to the local high school jazz band in his name. I'm sure he'd appreciate that. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss.
John Riccardi
February 26, 2011
Hal was a soul mate in many ways, though we lost touch over the past few years. I always felt deeply connected to him and with him, from the beginning of Hotchkiss and our playing music together for hours upon hours, having nothing but fun with White Label, him introducing me to Bill Evans, Kenny Burrell and other amazing musical legends. Hal was so cool in his tastes way back when we were but 16 or so. He was a complicated guy -- part of what I loved so much about him -- deep and thoughtful, but so warm and caring. And freaking funny. His quips and witticisms are forever with me. When I was in some dark moments myself, I flew to California to be with him for a week after college, like going to a place that gave me comfort perhaps because we got each other. So talented, authentic like none other, gentle, layered. He'd call me at the last minute and show up in my apartment in NY for a few days -- and we'd just be and hang, listen to music downtown, see Allison in a show; he was an usher in our wedding. Staying in touch was difficult in recent years, but I thought of him regularly. And his infectious smile. Hal is a part of me and I am so fortunate and grateful for that. I pray he is at peace. All my thoughts and prayers are with Mr. and Mrs. Janney, Allison and Jay. Rico
Lynn Whatford
February 26, 2011
February 26,2011
My deepest sympathy to your family and friends - Hal I will miss you stopping in to chat with me - your smile and humor your quick wave as you passed the window of the shop on your way to Kopplins - Im so very greatfull for the short time we crossed paths - you were/are a class act - will not forget you - Lynn Bella Galleria
Geoff Kerr & Family
February 25, 2011
Macy, Jerve, Jay and Alison,
We are so saddened by your loss. Hal had the most infectious laugh and smile. He lit us all up whenever he walked into the room.
My children and i will donate a small grove of trees to be planted in his name.
Our hearts go out to all you!
Cathy Cram
February 24, 2011
Hal was one of a kind. Insightful, sharply intelligent and always kind. My deepest condolences to the Janney family.
Jana N.
February 24, 2011
I am so sad to hear about the passing of Hal. I remember Hal from Miami Valley School where he a beacon of light, smiling, happy, funny and sweet. My prayers are with the Janney family during this very sad time. Hal will forever live in our hearts. ?
A
February 24, 2011
Thoughts to the Janney family
February 24, 2011
I knew Hal in high school and remember that there was only kindness and laughter around him. How lovely to have known that spirit. Remembering him has filled me with joy. May all his family and friends be filled with strength and love as life moves forward. He was a gift to the world. Lucy Garrity
Sarah Bellamy
February 24, 2011
After the Service…For Hal
23 February 2011
I had the rare privilege today of experiencing love—unmediated, unabashed, pure, celebratory. Why is it that we so rarely allow ourselves such freedom to love until the moment of a dear one’s passing? I heard stories today of a passion for life so great, so consuming, it became overwhelming to bear. I heard countless testaments to the power of friendship and how deeply the smallest gestures impact so many. This man who took leave of so many loved ones was celebrated in jest, in faith, in hope, in prayer, in mourning, in awe. I witnessed this because I let love into my life and my partner introduced me to a family of people made, born, recruited and simply picked up, by all of us who live in Cathedral Hill in St. Paul, Minnesota.
I bore witness to the process of grieving a loved one lost. How clumsy and vulnerable we are, how we rely on one another and hold each other up, how like iron our spines can be when it matters that we stand, and breathe, and share our stories about the angel we’ve lost. How we are steeled by the need to honor them and nothing, nothing, deters that courage. We take comfort in the living eyes of those around us, tear-stained as they may be, world-weary as they become, we go on and do our damndest to pull one another along.
I didn’t know him well, but my life is greater because I was there today. I saw the human spirit in its most raw, precious place. Because he was I saw today the power of kind words, the impact of thoughtfulness, the safety bred through trust and reliability. And then, this most unexpected thing…how to make sense of such divergent possibilities all wrapped up in the same person?
No one has the answers. We are but children lost across the rumbling earth. But we find each other and shore each other up, we laugh about our pain and are moved to tears at our most precious accomplishments and we grow each other up. Day by day. We become grown up. And then, before we ever realize it—I mean really realize it—it’s done. And we are left with questions—deep, frightening, gorgeous questions that speak to the bounty of our souls. How can we know these things? How can we go forward when we know this is possible? How dare we love in the face of death? How dare we raise children and build houses and business and cities and countries and speak of freedom and hope and faith? We are bold things. We go into the world so green. We come out, I think, greener still. Bless all of you this night.
And especially to the stunning, motley crew of entrepreneurs, visionaries, pioneers, connoisseurs, artists and vagabonds that are and became his family, may you find the strength to celebrate every day you had with him and may you find the courage to awaken that which brought you all near…in the beginning.
Amy Peterson
February 24, 2011
Hal was a neighbor of ours in St. Paul for the past ten years. Though I mainly saw him in passing, I shared many nice moments with him throughout the years. I will always remember his wry sense of humor and the kindness he exuded, and each time I walk by the garden that he planted I will think of him. All of us at Arundel Street Consulting will miss him greatly.
Kopplin's
February 24, 2011
Last week Hal Janney, beloved afternoon regular, passed away… leaving an empty space on our bench and in our hearts.
While our thoughts are with his friends and family, whose grieving we don’t attempt to supersede, we at the coffee shop will miss our daily hour (or two) with him. His presence in our lives was truly a blessing, and while we never expected our time together to end so soon, we’re thankful for the moments we had.
We’ll be holding your chocolate cookie for you, Hal.
Thanks for all you gave us.
Maria Ferraro
February 23, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear of Hal's passing. As his teacher, so long ago, I can still remember his wonderful smile. He was a fine young man. My prayers are with him and his family.
Jackie Moore
February 22, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about the world's loss of Hal. During our days at MVS he always had a smile and a hello for me even though I was a few years younger. Hal was kind and gracious to everyone. My deepest condolences to the Janney family.
Jackie Moore
Brian Titus
February 22, 2011
Hal and I were classmates at Hotchkiss, but we didn't become good friends until we roomed together as freshmen at GWU - a year made memorable by Hal's seemingly inexhaustible library of Joe Pass jazz albums. Sadly, I lost touch with Hal after he transferred to another school, but I will always remember his warmth, his wit, and his love love of music. I offer my deepest condolences to the Janney family and to all of Hal's friends and loved ones.
Jenny O'Brien
February 22, 2011
I have such warm memories of Hal – he was so kind, bright, gentle and with such a spark. He lit up when he smiled, and that was often. He made the rest of us feel good all those high school years ago. I am deeply sorry for all of you in the Janney family for your loss.
- Jenny O'Brien, San Francisco
John Hadden
February 22, 2011
It's been a long while since I last saw Hal, but I'm truly saddened by his passing. He was a good friend back in prep school—always warm, always ready to explore the quirky side of things and laugh at himself. My condolences to the Janneys.
February 22, 2011
Our condolences to Hal's family and his many friends. We will miss you, buddy. You were unique--a kind and thoughtful and unselfish person. Your dry wit and infectious smile lit up whatever room you occupied.
Andy Hjelmeland and JoAnn Guernsey
Curtis Grisham
February 21, 2011
To the Janneys: I am so sad to hear about Hal. Over and again the messages here recall his bright smile and quick wit, also such a powerful part of my memory of Hal from the first day I met him in 10th grade. Hal was one of the friendliest, most buoyant personalities I've ever encountered, and his generous spirit always made me feel more at ease. I am grateful to have known him.
Doug Kinsey
February 21, 2011
My deepest condolences to you and your family, Allison. So sorry to hear this news.
Lisa Cholnoky
February 21, 2011
A bright light to all who knew him, Hal was pure magic. He will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathies to the Janney family.
Lisa Cholnoky
February 21, 2011
A bright light for all who were lucky enough to know him, Hal was magic and will be deeply missed.
February 21, 2011
Sad news indeed! Ellen and I send our deepest sympathy to all the Janneys.
Blair Torrey
Genevieve (Gigi) Vayda
February 21, 2011
My deepest sympathies, with warmth and love, to my Hotchkiss friends, Jay and Allison. My heart aches so to hear of your loss. From what I read of your dear brother, the spirit of the Janneys runs very deep indeed. Long live that spirit!
Nicholas Siegel
February 21, 2011
Hal, may your humor and musicality play to the Universe for the ages. Godspeed, dear brother, you are celebrated. My deepest sympathies to clan Janney in this time of sorrow.
Kirk Williams
February 21, 2011
Hal,left a warm sense of self,intellect,wit,lightness of being,last time we spoke was meaningful,will miss him,and always remember him,to Family deeply sad for your loss.sunshine around the corner-Doctor,Saint Paul,MN
Ralph & Patty Skilken
February 21, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to the many friends and family members suffering this terrible loss. Our wish is that eventually your grief and sadness will lessen while you cherish the memories of the good times.
Caitlin McHugh
February 21, 2011
I have often thought of Hal through the years since we were in high school together. Even back then he left a warm and lasting impression on all who knew him. He was a beacon of light on this earth. My thoughts and love go out to his family.
Forbes Burtt
February 21, 2011
My sincere condolences to the Janney family. Hal was a good friend at Hotchkiss and the source of many laughs. He had a wonderful spirit and smile. Although we lost touch recently my memory of him is still clear. The world is a little less bright today.
Kim Kosciusko
February 21, 2011
To the Janney family
Passing along a thought that brought me comfort at the passing of a loved one:
When those we love pass away,
they become like a ship that we watch as it leaves its mooring,
sails out of the harbor,
out on to the open ocean,
and out beyond the horizon.
Like that ship, Hal is not gone,
only gone from our sight.
Octavia
February 21, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Janney family. A light has truly been extinguished in the loss of such a wonderful man. Miss you, Hal.
Richard Jenik
February 20, 2011
Hal made such an amazing impact on my whole family. We adored and loved him. Our hearts are broken. We will always remember the time we spent with him in Hawaii.
Tim Slager
February 20, 2011
Altough I just knew Hal briefly while we were in our twenties, his exceptional kindness led me to recall him often as a friend. May this same kindness provide comfort to the Janney family at this difficult time.
Stephanie Weber
February 20, 2011
To the Janney family and to all who loved Hal, my deepest sympathies for the loss of one whose playfulness and gentle, sensitive spirit touched so many.
Mike Faricy
February 20, 2011
Hal, My dear, dear friend. I left a message on your phone, Monday, not so funny now. The world seems a little less bright. Its raining where I am today, even the sky is crying. God bless, Mike
Seth Krosner
February 20, 2011
I have very fond memories of Hal from our days together in High School. My very deepest condolences to the entire Janney family.
Pat Bailey
February 20, 2011
To the Janney family;
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We send our love and prayers to you.
Pat Bailey and George Houk
J F
February 19, 2011
Oh Hal you are going to be missed, I was lucky to have shared a time in your life. I hope you are at peace and my heart goes out to your family and those closest to you. I will never forget your smile and sense of humor but mostly your gentle and kind soul.
Jon Spayde
February 18, 2011
I didn't know Hal, but I know some of his friends and was very aware of the circle of love around him. Clearly an extraordinary man who will be missed.
P M
February 18, 2011
Humorous,Artistic,Loving
Jocular,Affable,Numbers guy,Naturally quick,Eloquent, Young at heart.
Your spirit lives on through your many friends. See you on the other side, brother.
P M
February 18, 2011
Humorous. Artistic. Loving.
Jocular. Affable. Numbers guy. Naturally quick. Eloquent. Young at heart.
Your spirit lives on through your many friends. I'll see you on the other side, brother.
February 18, 2011
My heart goes out to the Janney family, now and forever.
Georgia Benson Ferretti
(South Riding, Virginia)
Brandon and Anna Sullivan
February 17, 2011
For those who knew and loved Hal, the City of St. Paul, and especially places like Nina's, Solo Vino and Cheeky Monkey, will never be the same. He was a bright light in the lives of many and will be very deeply missed. To the Janney family and those closest to Hal - as there truly are no words that are appropriate during this time, we simply wish to tell you that you are in our thoughts and prayers daily as you grieve. We feel so blessed to have known Hal and will always cherish the memories we shared with him.
Frederica Claiborne
February 17, 2011
I am so heartbroken by the passing of my friend Hal. He was a generous person with a quick wit and a lovely smile. I loved his kind and gentle manner. He thought and felt deeply and wasn't afraid to show it. I have many great memories of quality time spent with Hal through the years, from Cedarhurst to San Francisco. My deepest sympathies to Mr. and Mrs. Janney, Allison, Jay, and Jay's kids as well as to all of Hal's friends who I know will miss his friendship.
Frederica Claiborne
February 17, 2011
I am so heartbroken by the passing of my friend Hal. He was a generous person with a quick wit and a lovely smile. I loved his kind and gentle manner. He thought and felt deeply and wasn't afraid to show it. I have many great memories of quality time spent with Hal through the years, from Cedarhurst to San Francisco. My deepest sympathies to Mr. and Mrs. Janney, Allison, Jay, and Jay's kids as well as to all of Hal's friends who I know will miss his friendship.
Flannery Delaney
February 17, 2011
We are so sad to hear about Hal. His beautiful smile, incredible sense of humor and amazing generosity will never be forgotten.
Flannery Delaney
Jeff Patterson
February 17, 2011
I did not know Hal and have only known the Janneys through my parents and sister having been born in Dayton. Please accept my deepest sympathies. If there is anything I can do offer support here in the Twin Cities, please contact me.
Stuart Weinberg
February 17, 2011
I was so sorry to hear about Hal. My memories of him at MVS are only those of a lively, smiling kid who actually understood some of my jokes... My deepest sympathies to the Janney family.
Showing 1 - 77 of 77 results
Make a Donation
in Henry Janney's name
Memorial Events
for Henry Janney
Funeral services provided by:
O'Halloran & Murphy Funeral and Cremation Services - St. Paul575 South Snelling Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55116
How to support Henry's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Henry Janney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
