Janet Patti Kraft
Janet Patti Kraft, 61, took off on Santa’s sleigh on Dec. 25, 2008, and headed to heaven’s biggest party of the year.
Born on May 19, 1947, in Chicago, to parents Vincent and Mildred Patti, she is survived by her parents, Vincent and Mildred; sister, Melanie Airciar; and brother, Anthony Patti. She also leaves her children, Sheila Davison, Jimi (Susan) Kitsmiller and Melinda (Kevin) Chern; grandchildren, Andrew McCain, Amber Lindstrom, Izzy Chern, Cameron Kitsmiller, Charlie Davison, Sully Chern and Lucinda Davison.
She is predeceased by her sister, Karen Patti, and husband, Tom Kraft.
Mrs. Kraft was extremely hard working but played equally hard. She was a big supporter of the Matlacha Mariners and the Matlacha Hookers. She also was the founder of the Tiara Club and was the undisputed, self proclaimed “Queen of the Universe.”
She made her way through life as a self proprietor and never asked for help or took more than she needed from those around her. She loved parties and threw some of the most memorable ones at her home in Bokeelia.
During the last few years of her life, Mrs. Kraft’s closest companion was Al Brown. She and Al took what they described as a trip of a lifetime sailing in Al’s boat into the sunset. When Janet became ill, Al was not only a friend but an inspiration and the shining light in her life.
Another important person in her life was Alice Leary. She and Janet met 17 years ago and became fast friends. Alice proved to be Janet’s confidant and was among the few that could keep her grounded.
She was a loving mother who went through life sharing a smile that could light up the room and will always be remembered for her infectious laugh that was often heard where ever she went. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Janet’s family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Hope Hospice for their constant kindness and caring and ask that any contributions be made in her name to Hope Hospice, 2430 Diplomat Pkwy E., Cape Coral, FL 33909.