Janet Knaphle Loewe

Janet Knaphle Loewe passed away peacefully at home on 2/22/25.

Born in Bryn Mawr, Pa, Janet graduated from Upper Merion High School and received her BS in Nursing from The University of Cincinnati. After raising her daughters, Janet returned to school , receiving a Masters as a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist from The University of Pennsylvania.

Janet moved to Clarks Summit with her young family in 1963. She became active in the community and participated as a volunteer in many clubs and organizations, including the Scranton Community Club and the Junior League of Scranton; receiving the Margaret Richards Award for outstanding community service. Janet also served as president of the Scranton Chapter of Planned Parenthood and as a Docent for both the Everhart and Anthracite Museums. She also enjoyed presenting dramatic readings to various local groups.

Janet was employed as a Psychiatric Nurse Instructor for the CMC School of Nursing, and later as The Director of Nursing Education at Clarks Summit State Hospital. There, along with her other duties, Janet developed programs to support families of persons living with mental illness. After retirement, she continued part time work as a Consultant for the VNA of Scranton and as a Psychiatric Nurse instructor for the University of Scranton and Penn State Nursing programs.

Throughout her life, Janet was active in community theatre. She was a talented actress, and performed with both Scranton Public Theatre and Actors Circle. She performed in many dramatic, musical and comedic roles; her favorite being Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire." In 2017, Actors Circle honored Janet by creating an award in her name, "The Janet Loewe Excellence in Acting Award", which is now given annually to a community actor who has demonstrated excellence in their craft.

Janet very much enjoyed animals, nature, travel, bridge, reading; and she supported many environmental causes throughout her life.

Most of all, Janet treasured being a mother to her two daughters, her relationship with her partner of 38 years, Dr. Matthew Fairbanks, and her wonderful friendships.

Janet was beloved, as she touched many lives with her kindness, generosity, warmth, talent, and optimism. She will be remembered always for her loving nature, delightful spirit, infectious laughter, and her courage; especially by those who hold her most dear.

Janet is survived by her two daughters, Deborah Heather Loewe, of Ithaca, NY and Jennifer Loewe Chapman of Asheville, NC. She was preceeded in death by her partner, Matthew Fairbanks and her former husband, Edward Loewe of Asheville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Actors Circle, Planned Parenthood, Griffin Pond Animal Shelter or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 12th, at 2 pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Clarks Summit, 300 School Street, Clarks Summit.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, Clarks Summit.