Jane M Kinney

Joni Mitchell wrote "You don't know what you've got 'til it's gone" and this never seemed truer than after reading Jane's lovely obituary. We were customers of hers, both downtown and on Monroe Street, but didn't know her outside of that. But that was enough, it seemed, because the rest of Jane (as I now understand) really came through in her work. Her flower arrangements - the selection of flowers that she had on hand - were always exquisite and I think reflected all of the wonderful experiences and insights that she must have gained in her 71 years on earth. I could go on and on about this woman that I barely knew, but suffice it to say that she touched me and so many, many others. She is missed.

I was shocked to read of Jane's passing. I had the pleasure of working for Jane on both King and Monroe St. Helping out from time to time so she could pursue some of her adventures. She had a kind and gentle soul. Rest in peace Jane.

I was an employee of J Kinney from 1999-2003. She was so kind and giving to me as I embarked on my studies in environmental science at UW Madison. Jane gave me great responsibility and confidence thru the shop and her trust and leadership. I was affected by my time there... I became a self employed contractor for the past 20 years... owing some of that knowledge and stamina to a wonderful mentor Jane Kinney. I send my deepest condolences and gratitude, knowing Jane was knowing a warrior who lived her life her way and for the love of nature. She was a gift to this planet. I will miss her spirit here on earth. Love and gratitude, Nina Bednarski

Jane was one of those unique people who made even the casual customer feel like they were the most important person she encountered that day. Funny, sweet, curious, intelligent, the list of adjectives to describe her could be endless. She was always my favorite place to stop on Monroe street and before that her charming shop on King. This is a great loss to our community. We shall all miss her.

What a shock! I met Jane in 2009 when I joined Fair Field Flowers. We were a group of cut flower growers and Jane was always one of our best customers. After several years of business as usual, our regular driver, also a grower, decided he no longer wanted to drive. That same year Jane decided to sell her business. Jane and I were chatting in her shop after I had delivered her flowers and she asked if we were still looking for a driver and we were! She was our driver for the next 3 or 4 years until the group disbanded. I loved going to the truck to get a cup of Jane in the morning. She had a sharp and quick wit and it was always a joy to be around her. Both Michael and I will miss her.