BRUNSWICK — Jane V. Yacano, 83, of Harpswell Road, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 19, at her home, after losing her battle with cancer.

Jane grew up in Lewiston, the eldest of five siblings, Henry Pinard, Paul Pinard, Rita Clark and Doris Fournier, all children of Albert and Yvette Cloutier Pinard of Lewiston.

Jane’s career as a stitcher in leather goods spanned most of her adult life. At a time when few women held positions of authority, she was proud to have worked her way up in the sewing industry to foreman at Auerbach Shoe Co. in Brunswick. She provided her crew of 70 with leadership, expertise, hands on instruction and in many cases, friendly advice and support.

She also contributed to the World War II effort by briefly working as a welder at Bath Iron Works. In addition to working full time, Jane raised her five children and cared for her own mother, Yvette Pinard. She retired at 58 to spend time with her husband of then 33 years, John Yacano, who passed away in June 2000.

Jane enjoyed drawing, music and dancing. As a young woman, she played the banjo and sang in a local Lewiston band. Even in her last few months of life, Jane took pride in her familiarity with all the latest country singers. As her children grew and earned both high school and college degrees, Jane went back to school and with great pride and earned her diploma at age 42. Jane enjoyed the experience and went on to take a real estate course in pursuit of another of her interests.

Jane’s life was dedicated to her family, her husband, her five children, grandchildren and mother. She leaves behind five children, Janet Jones, wife of David Jones, Diana O’Donnell, wife of James O’Donnell, Jo-Ann Campbell, wife of Lawrence Campbell, Debra Anderson, wife of David Anderson and Frank Yacano, husband of Kathy Yacano; as well as 13 grandchildren, James and Joshua O’Donnell, Melany Mondello, Geoffrey, Mathew and David Campbell, Molly and Sean Anderson, Jessica, Jacob and Daneel Dafni and John and Joseph Yacano.

Jane Yacano was a hard working and selfless person. She is greatly loved and will be sorely missed. May she rest in peace.

To share your thoughts and condolences with Jane’s family and view a video tribute, please visit www.stetsonsfuneralhome.com.