Jeanne Kerlikowske Tosi, 91, of St. Joseph, passed away at Caretel Inns of Lakeland surrounded by her children.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Krasl Art Center. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Jeanne was born on September 27, 1926, to Charles & Mayme (Borst) Kerlikowske in Benton Harbor. She graduated from St. Joseph High School where she was proud to be the drum major for the school’s marching band. In 1968, Jeanne married Emil Tosi at the First congregational Church in St. Joseph. Together, they traveled all over the world.
Jeanne was a women of many trades, but her most important role was being a mother and taking care of her family and friends. She enjoyed playing bridge at the St. Joseph public library and golfing at the Point O’Woods Country Club. Jeanne loved to volunteer for the Krasl Art Fair with her special friend, Dick Grose, and make her famous soups for the Krasl Art Center’s fundraisers. Jeanne was an artist herself. She enjoyed knitting, making stain glass, and painting. Jeanne also had an amazing green thumb and could grow anything in her garden.
Jeanne is survived by her children, Charles (Debra) Dwan of Niles, Pat (Bill Mitchell) Forbes of Stevensville and Penni Helsene of Milford, MI; step-daughter, Yvonne Tosi Wallsten of Stevensville; grandchildren, Christopher (Eleanor Howe) Dwan of Boston, Carol (Adam) Webb of Summerfield, NC, Albert (Ibalu) Dwan of Oakland, CA, Stephan (Julie) Forbes of Lewisville, CO, Katie (Tony) Skinner of Excelsior, MN, Megan (Paul) Dopp of Boulder, CO and Justin (Marleana) Helsene of Brighton, MI; great-grandchildren, Conner, Alexis, Will, Levi, Joey, Tyler, Micah and Taija.
Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents; husband Emil Tosi; first husband Edwin Dwan; longtime companion Dick Grose; and siblings, June Morse, Donna Hamilton and Bud Kerlikowske.
Jeanne was a friend to many and will be missed dearly by her loving family, friends and those who cared for her and lived with her the last three years.