Book of Memories for Jane Smith Zirnkilton

Condolence From Jim and Becky Crofoot

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 13:49:00 EDT

We were sorry to hear of Jane's death. We always enjoyed her whether it was on the tennis court or just visiting with her. She was quite the lady and will be missed. We send condolences to her family. Jim and Becky

Story shared: How I met Maine

Tue, 07 Jun 2016 09:48:09 EDT

Jane Zirnkilton (I called her Mrs. Z) took me to Seal Harbor in 1965 and 1966 to watch out for the three children, Kip, Stevie and Jane-Jane. It was a blissful time of Boston Whaler trips and sailing races and picnics. We lived in the mansion of Asa Phillips and I ended up dating his boat boy, Tim. Del cooked us blueberry muffins and Mr. Z introduced me to lobster and clams. We did the annual hike around Jordan Pond ending with tea and popovers on the lawn, a hike I have repeated many times. The wonderful memories still flood me now at age 68. I've returned to Mt. Desert Island at least 15 times over the years -- to work at Jordan Pond House, to honeymoon, to experience this paradise with my children and grandchildren.

And all of this was made possible by this kind and gentle woman who treated me like a daughter and helped me feel comfortable in circumstances far beyond those of my middle class family. Thank you, dear Mrs. Z., for showing me the still idyllic world of Seal Harbor, Maine.

Janeelicker (so named by the children to distinguish all the Janes)

Condolence From Jennifer Richardson

Sat, 14 May 2016 15:06:25 EDT

So very sorry we have all had to say good bye to such a great lady. Her boat was moored at Bahia Mar in Ft Lauderdale one year, which was right across the Intracoastal from my house, and we enjoyed one another's company that year in Florida. I always looked forward to her visits at my store, as I knew she would always have a funny comment or quip, and we'd laugh together. My sympathies.

Condolence From Charleen Wallace

Fri, 13 May 2016 22:38:35 EDT

I will always remember Jane's smile and her kind words. May God give her eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain. Thinking of you all.

Condolence From Peter Thompson

Thu, 12 May 2016 18:17:35 EDT

I was saddened to read of Mrs. Zirnkilton's passing. I met her and Norman back in '84 when I was working at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo for the winter. I happened to be rowing around the marina after work and saw that their boat was from Seal Harbor. Norman was on deck and I rowed over and introduced myself. After a few drinks that evening with the two of them, they invited me to help them bring their boat back to Seal Harbor. I did that trip with them, and then a return trip the following year. I believe I still owe Mrs. Z $4.85 from the penny a point Gin Rummy games we played for hours. She was a wonderful woman. So full of life and love for the all her friends and family. I miss Norman too. Great sense of humor and a superb seaman. On the trip south, after I fixed up a drink for Mrs. Z while Norman was on watch, she said "You shouldn't do this anymore." "What?" She said, "Boats... Working on boats. You should do something more. You should go to college." I laughed, but then I started thinking about that in the days that followed. When I returned home to Maine, I enrolled in college. My mother never did meet Mrs. Z, but, if she had, I'm sure she would have given her a big kiss. I expect they are probably both playing Gin Rummy in heaven right now. Watch out Mom, she's good--don't play for more than a penny a point. I'll donate that $4.85 (with interest) to one of Mrs. Z's causes. :-) I'd appreciate it if someone would let me know when the memorial service is going to be held. I'd very much like to attend.

Photo shared: Jane S Zirnkilton - Cropped 1photo.jpg

Fri, 06 May 2016 03:43:38 EDT