Jan K Kemp

Jan K. Kemp, 85, passed away on October 6, 2026, after a long and fulfilling life filled with family, laughter, learning, adventure, and more than a few well-timed jokes.

Born on May 30, 1941, to Matthew and Irene Kemp, he dedicated more than 50 years of his life to his career as a pharmacist. Over the decades, he worked in Sandusky, at Gray Drug, and later at CVS Pharmacy, caring for countless people along the way. He took great pride in his profession and believed strongly in education, hard work, kindness, and helping others whenever he could.

A lifelong learner, he was a true history buff with an endless curiosity about geography, academics, and the world around him. He loved traveling, being outdoors, watching birds, and collecting stamps and coins; small pieces of history and seeing places that suited his curious nature perfectly.

He could be a serious man, but anyone who truly knew him knew there was usually a joke waiting somewhere underneath. His sense of humor could be wonderfully dry, and he was known to deliver a joke so seriously that a stranger might not realize until much later that he had been kidding all along. Throughout his life, whether through a joke, a story, or simply being himself, he hoped he could leave someone smiling or give them a reason to laugh. He was a kidded, he’d say.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Kemp, and his daughters, Sarah Kemp and Emily Davis.

After 85 years, he asked for very little in the way of a goodbye. His wish was simply that those who knew him remember him fondly. Smile when you think of him. Laugh at the stories. Curse at him if you need to. Tell one of his jokes; even if no one realizes you're joking. Look for a bird, learn something new, travel somewhere you have never been, maybe pick up a rock and bring it home.

And when the time comes to send him on his way, play Gene Autry’s Back in the Saddle Again.

Because after a long life, well lived and entirely his own, it seems only fitting to imagine him back in the saddle again; off on one more adventure, probably with a joke or some trouble ready for whoever he meets along the way.

Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Rd, Geneva, OH 44041, assisted the family with arrangements. (440) 361-2273. www.LakeErieCrematory.com