At the remarkable age of 92, Jane Frances (Marak) Leifer, passed away very peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at the St. Lukes Hospice House. She was born February 25,1933 in Topeka Kansas to Elsie and Henry Marak.
Jane received her undergraduate work at St. Mary’s University and did her nursing practice at St. Margarets in Kansas City. It was through her nursing career that she developed some of her closest friendships. In her late years, she often reminisced fondly about her nursing days. Her experiences were vast. She took great pride in her career and exhibited the highest standard of care for all of those who came her way.
She married Dr. William Leifer on May 17, 1973. Together they enjoyed 28 years, playing golf and traveling. She took loving care of him until his passing in November 2001.
Born with a generous heart and a naturally quick wit, she was beloved very much by her family and friends. She doted on her four nieces from the day they were born and was a constant presence in their lives. Her mischievous smile, perfectly timed, and often unexpected jokes, brought so much joy to all who knew her. Even in the end when she was struggling, her humorous remarks would surface, surprising her friends, family, and caregivers.
She was preceded in death by her husband Dr. William Leifer, her stepson Matthew Leifer, her two loving sisters Patricia Marak and Barbara (Al) Folkner.
She is survived by her four nieces Patricia (Mark) Leicht, Susan (Cyril) Kapsner, Lisa (Jim) Bevill, and Ann Folkner. She is also survived by her stepson and his wife William and Lynne Leifer, step grandsons Matt Leifer and Ben (Megan Birdsall) Leifer, two great step granddaughters Dindi and Kyrie, and a long list of great nieces/nephews.
The family wants to express gratitude to the caregivers in the Coventry Care area of Bishop Spencer and St. Lukes Hospice and Hospice House. No words can express how much comfort they gave the family as they helped Jane through her journey.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 21st at Visitation Church, 5141 Main Street, KCMO. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Lansing, KS.
