Janis Tavel

Janis Tavel, a longtime resident of San Rafael, devoted family matriarch, and beloved friend to many, passed away peacefully on July 30th, 2026, following a brief illness. She was 96 years old. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Dr. Frank R. Tavel, as well as by her children Rodger, Marjorie, and Kenny. She is survived by her devoted family, including her son Dave and his wife Reem, as well as a circle of cherished lifelong friends.

Janis was born and raised in Denver, Colorado. She graduated from East High School in Denver and attended the University of Michigan. In 1951, she married the love of her life, Frank, embarking on a remarkable 68-year partnership built on deep devotion, mutual respect, and shared adventure.

While Frank pursued his medical career, Janis served as the heart and cornerstone of the Tavel family. A woman of immense grace, warmth, and quiet strength, she turned homemaking into an art form. Janis managed the household with exceptional organization and care, creating a welcoming, vibrant home in San Rafael where family gatherings and celebrations were always anchored by her hospitality, generous spirit, and wonderful cooking and baking.

Her unwavering support was the bedrock of Frank's practice and community leadership. Beyond her home, Janis was an active and engaged member of the Marin community, volunteering in support of MarinHealth Medical Center (formerly Marin General Hospital) and participating as a dedicated member of the Marin JCC. Always impeccably dressed, she had a keen eye for fashion, a love for hosting gatherings, and a passion for puzzles and a good steak. She and Frank shared a lifelong love of dancing and travel, exploring the world side by side. Above all else, her greatest joy came from nurturing her family, supporting her children, and creating a lifetime of treasured memories.

A loving and devoted wife, mother, and loyal friend, Janis will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her warmth, elegance, and steadfast devotion to those she loved.

The family extends special thanks to her truly wonderful Fijian caregivers for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Janis' memory to Marin Community Clinics.

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