Janice Marie Epp
Dec. 28, 1946-Dec. 25, 2012
Palo Alto, California
Submitted by James Frieman
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Dr. Janice Epp, prominent clinical sexologist and educator, fifth-generation San Franciscan, and longtime resident of Palo Alto, passed away peacefully on Christmas morning at California Pacific Medical Center Davies after a brief battle with cancer fought with her legendary sense of humor, courage and determination. Janice left this life surrounded by her family and friends; Jim Frieman and Marvin Segall, both of whom cared for and supported her through her illness; her devoted cats Annie and Gillian; and a dedicated CPMC Davies medical team led by Dr. Charles Moser. She was 65 years of age.
Janice received her Ph.D. from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. She was renowned as a passionate and inspiring teacher, a brilliant clinician, a wise mentor and a fearless crusader for sexual science. Janice's love for people endeared her to a large circle of friends and colleagues.
A trained and experienced soprano, her musical interests ranged from early music and opera to rock 'n' roll, and she performed with numerous local ensembles. Janice loved her family, friends and cats extravagantly, and was always the life of the party. She had a lifelong passion for the San Francisco Giants and 49ers, and was an avid and expert skier.
Janice served as Assistant Professor of Health Science, Skyline College and Professor and Dean of the Faculty, Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality. She served on the Board of Directors of the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality and as President of its Western Region.
She is survived by her partner of 40 years, Dr. James Frieman; her loving friend of 33 years, Marvin Segall; her father, Stewart Bowles and his wife, Jean; mother, Velma Kingsbury and her partner, Tom Mazzolini; siblings, Ann and Ken Kingsbury and Ken's fiancee, Carolyn Walker; aunts, Christine Hills (Clay Johnson), Cynthia Hills Gailey (Mark), Diane Hills McCue (Pat) and Susan Hills; many nieces and nephews; and countless close friends.
A private memorial and interment will be held in January at Alta Mesa Memorial Park in Palo Alto. Arrangements for a larger celebration of Janice's life are in preparation.
Rest well, sweet Otter. We're with you and loving you, always.
Tags: teacher/educator, public service