Jan Hobby Tau

Jan was born on May 2, 1956, in Sanford, Florida, to Louis Cecil Hobby and Pauline Mittie Hewett Jones, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her beloved sister, Betty Ann Hobby Danese.

Jan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, coach, and friend. She is survived by her husband, James Tau; their three children, Jason Tau (Danie), Jana Bidle (Chris), and Jared Tau; and two grandchildren, Wyatt Tau and Stella Bidle.

She is also survived by her sisters, Carol Hobby Jervis and Crystal Hobby Homer (John); her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Pauline Mui (Tin), Pui Morrice (Scott), and Lop Chin (Ellyn); along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Florida always held a special place in Jan’s heart. Although she lived in Illinois for the vast majority of her life, Florida was always home in a special way, and she cherished every opportunity to return. Just three weeks before her passing, Jan drove to Florida on her own, determined to spend time in the place she loved. While there, she was able to visit with family, sit by the ocean, and enjoy the beauty of Florida once again. When she was no longer able to make the drive home herself, her sister Carol and niece Angie drove her safely back to Illinois. Jan and her family will always be grateful for the love and care they showed her in helping her make the journey home. Her determination to make the trip to Florida, despite her illness, was a testament to the strength and independence that defined her.

Bowling was one of Jan’s greatest passions. For decades, she served as a youth bowling coach and ran Lisle Lanes’ Saturday Morning Youth Bowling League, helping hundreds of children learn the sport, develop their skills, compete, build friendships, and earn scholarship money for their futures. She took great pride in encouraging young bowlers and watching them grow, both on and off the lanes. She also enjoyed bowling in numerous leagues herself and formed many lasting friendships through the bowling community. Her love of the sport was about much more than competition—it was about family, friendship, community, and bringing people together.

She gave so much of herself to others and touched countless lives through her family, her work, and the young people she coached. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A celebration of Jan’s life will be held at a later date, when family and friends can come together to honor her memory. Details will be shared when arrangements have been made.