Jane A. Kleinschmidt

Jane Ann [Messing] Kleinschmidt, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully March 26 at home surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the matriarch of this large, loving family for 92 years.

Jane was born November 6, 1928, grew up in Irvington and attended Howe High School where she met her future husband, Kenneth Richard Kleinschmidt who died in 2007. They went to DePauw University together and married after graduation in 1950.

They raised 4 children in Broad Ripple during which time Jane served as the secretary at Public School 84. After she retired, Jane and Ken renovated the family lake cottage in northern Indiana where Jane had gone every summer of her life. Jane and Ken lived there during the summer, often hosting the whole family at once for lovely weekends of swimming, boating and delicious meals. They also kept a residence in Indianapolis so that they could attend every meaningful event in the lives of their children and grandchildren because family was the most important thing to them.

Jane was an artist who created tapestry and painted furniture masterpieces. She loved history and to the end of her days could tell you the succession of English monarchs. She was quicker than Google for background information on many topics. But mostly, she will be remembered for always taking care of her family.

Jane is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Sue Anna Messing, and her brother, Joseph Messing. She is survived by her and Ken’s three children: Janet, Kenneth (Julia), Thomas (Blythe). Their son James (Rita) died in 2008. Jane’s family also includes grandchildren: Calvin (Jamie) and their children Aria and James, Heather (Jorge), Tony, Bradley (Vanessa) Tyler (Christie) Carol, Daniel, Samuel, Ryan and his daughter Rosie.

There will be a private family service.