Jane Massa, 91 years of age and change, was survived by a small family, and an army of students to whom she devoted her teaching life in hopes that they would know they weren't the "lost causes" that so many before her had considered them to be.

A first-generation Italian who grew up in the hills of Pennsylvania, Jane joined the Army and served at Fort Bragg where she met her future husband, Harold, who preceded her in death. The two eventually ended in the mill smoked Midwest. Her sons Dan (Diane) Massa, Don Massa and Bob (Nina) Massa as well as her grandchildren, Elizabeth (Mark) Knox, Alex Massa and great grandchild, Vanessa Knox, survive her.

A teacher for years, many former students or colleagues enjoyed a visit to her modest home, used an unexpected encounter to share a heartfelt expression of gratitude, or snail mailed her to let her know the difference she made in their lives and thoughts. Jane maintained she'd done nothing but give them a glimpse of a few of their many talents and the knowledge that she believed in them.

Her humility carries through as she opted out of any of the "too public" funeral services and asked instead that donations be given daily in the form of effort and understanding for those who don't always fit within our schools. Those who knew Jane would not be surprised that she would find that to be the most valuable expression, on her behalf, that one could offer.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel. 219-942-2109.